Frequently Asked Questions

---

Connection Spectrum is a grassroots organization founded by educators to empower individuals with disabilities. Our mission is to create a safe and inclusive social environment that supports young adults and adults with disabilities in building natural and lasting friendships. We aim to provide individuals and their families with opportunities to connect, celebrate achievements, and navigate challenges together. Through structured support and guidance in understanding social cues, we are committed to fostering authentic relationships and meaningful connections that enhance personal growth and community belonging.

John is a highly accomplished educator with over two decades of experience in special education. He has served as a case manager in various settings, including Setting I, II, and Center Base Programs, focusing on students with Emotional Behavioral Disabilities (EBD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While John teaches a broad range of academic subjects, his true passion lies in helping young adults develop essential independent living, social, and emotional skills. He specializes in guiding them through crucial transitions, such as employment, independent living, and post-secondary training options, while also supporting their emotional well-being by helping them identify emotions, develop coping strategies, recognize triggers, and build meaningful friendships.

Recognizing the need for enhanced support for students and their families, John partnered with colleagues and parent advocates to establish Connection Spectrum. This organization is dedicated to providing young adults on the spectrum with valuable opportunities to engage with their community and form meaningful social connections. John holds an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree and a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University, Saint Paul, MN. He also earned a teaching license in Emotional Behavioral Disabilities (EBD) from Augsburg College, Minneapolis, MN, and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in American History with a minor in Ethnic Studies from the University of Washington, Seattle, WA.

Connection Spectrum is currently dedicated to hosting bi-monthly structured social events, including group outings, game nights, and volunteer opportunities, designed to foster connection and community. Looking ahead, we plan to introduce individual and small-group social skills training to further support personal growth. Additionally, we are exploring the expansion of our services to include mental health consultations, one-on-one skill development sessions, and health coaching to provide a more comprehensive range of support.

• Empathy and Understanding: We prioritize empathy and understanding, recognizing the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Our approach is rooted in compassion, fostering a supportive environment that respects and celebrates neurodiversity.

• Individuality and Inclusion: We value and celebrate the individuality of each person. Our programs are designed to be inclusive, acknowledging and respecting diverse perspectives, strengths, and abilities. We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

• Holistic Development: We are committed to holistic development, addressing a spectrum of life skills including social, communication, independent living, and personal well-being. Our coaching programs aim to empower individuals to thrive in various aspects of their lives, fostering independence and self-discovery.

• Innovation and Personalization: We embrace innovation in our coaching methods and continually seek personalized strategies that cater to the unique needs of each individual. Our commitment to staying at the forefront of effective practices allows us to provide cutting-edge and tailored solutions.

• Community and Connection: We believe in the power of community and connection. Our programs not only focus on individual growth but also foster a sense of belonging through social networking opportunities. We strive to build a supportive community where individuals can connect, learn, and share experiences.

• Accessibility and Affordability: We are dedicated to making our coaching programs accessible to all. We place importance on affordability, ensuring that resources are available to individuals, families, and professionals engaged in the care of those on the spectrum. Our goal is to break down financial barriers to access support.

• Continuous Learning and Improvement: We value continuous learning and improvement. Through ongoing research, feedback, and collaboration with experts, we strive to enhance our programs to meet evolving needs. We are committed to staying informed and adapting to the latest developments in the field of autism support.

• Advocacy for Neurodiversity: We are dedicated advocates for neurodiversity and individuals with all disabilities, striving to create a world that embraces and celebrates differences. Through our programs, we aim to drive a societal shift in perception, fostering an inclusive environment where individuals with ASD and other disabilities are valued and recognized for their unique strengths and contributions.

• Transparency and Accountability: We uphold transparency and accountability in all our interactions. We are committed to keeping our community informed about our activities, impact, and financial stewardship. Accountability is at the core of our commitment to the well-being of those we serve.

• Celebration of Achievements: We honor and celebrate the accomplishments, both big and small, of individuals with disabilities. Our focus is on recognizing and highlighting their successes, fostering a positive and empowering narrative that showcases their abilities and potential.

These core values guide every aspect of Connection Spectrum, shaping our programs, relationships, and the impact we aspire to make in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

At Connection Spectrum, our vision is a world where individuals with disabilities are celebrated for their unique strengths and abilities. We envision a society that embraces diversity, where every person has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling and successful life.

Connection Spectrum strives to be at the forefront of creating a supportive and inclusive community that transcends traditional approaches. We aspire to be a beacon of empowerment, guiding individuals with disabilities on transformative journeys of self-discovery and growth.

We see a future where our tailored coaching programs, enriched with social networking opportunities, set a global standard for fostering essential life skills. Through personalized attention, we aim to equip individuals with the tools needed to thrive in their social lives, careers, and daily routines.

Our vision includes dismantling barriers that individuals with disabilities often face when transitioning into adulthood. We envision accessible and affordable resources that enable individuals, their families, and the professionals supporting them to navigate the challenges and triumphs of adult life with confidence.

Above all, Connection Spectrum envisions a society that recognizes the potential within each person and actively supports their journey toward independence, meaningful relationships, and lifelong success. Through our unwavering commitment to a people-first perspective, we strive to be catalysts for positive change, fostering a world where everyone can truly thrive.