The Autism Council of Utah and ScenicView Academy present
may 12-13, 2023
Help make AutCon possible - Click Here to Donate
|
|
|
|
|
Event Information
What's in it for me?
Sarah Heuser, AutCon organizer and presenter
“I first suspected I was autistic when I was 16 after seeing a character on TV who was explicitly labelled as "Asperger's" and who shared a lot of the same traits as I did. I brought it up with a a few people, and I was told there was no way. I was too good with words, and way too social to be anywhere on the spectrum. I still felt a connection to the spectrum, but I dropped it. Two years later I got my diagnosis. I did then what I always do; I went to the Internet to research. As I researched I found that the best information for me did not come from "experts" who had gone through years of schooling and performing clinical research. No. It came from other people that had lived with the same traits and challenges I had for their entire lives. It came from other autistic people. That's what AutCon is. It's people on the spectrum talking to other people on the spectrum. It's sharing coping methods, and work-arounds, and ways of using our strengths to overcome our weaknesses. Since my diagnosis I have immersed myself in real life situations with other people like me. I love my non-autistic friends and family, but there is something special about being in a group of people whose brains are wired like mine. It's a bit like the feeling of coming home. This is the feeling I hope we can help others feel with AutCon. I hope we can make it feel a little bit like you are coming home.
Jared Stewart, AutCon organizer and presenter
Why should I come to AutCon? That is a great question. We fully realize that the idea of going to a convention of any kind can be an unknown and overwhelming thought for some of us on the Spectrum. (Of course, there are those of us who absolutely love conventions too--otherwise ComicCon and all the others wouldn't even exist!) We're doing everything we can to make sure that the environment at AutCon is accommodating and autism-friendly in every way possible, and that the speakers, panels, and other opportunities will be fun, low-stress, meaningful, valuable, and powerful. That having been said, we're learning as we go. As far as we know, this is the first convention in the history of the world put on BY individuals with Autism FOR individuals with Autism. We think that there is inherent value in this, but truth be told, we have no idea how successful it will be. It could be 20 people who show up this first year, or it could be 200. It could be the absolute perfect mix of information and experiences, or we might be accidentally missing something really significant. We'll never know unless we try it though. No matter what happens, the people who choose to come will be the trailblazers who will shape the future of the autism movement in Utah and beyond. Look over the topics, think about the things you've always wanted to know about being an adult on the Spectrum, and imagine what it will feel like to be around a group who shares your challenges and accepts you for who you are. Come make a positive difference in your life and be a part of history!
Josh Olivas, AutCon organizer, presenter, and Star Wars enthusiast
Ever heard the phrase "you'll get out of it what you put into it"? Well, good news... That doesn't apply here, because AutCon is putting all the hard work into it for you. It's a conference for those with autism by those with autism - and there's no better source of life advice than that. Looking for answers and guidance to help you overcome the daily struggles of being autistic? Check. AutCon has it! Hoping to find others just like you and build out your physical and emotional support group? Yup. AutCon has it! Wanting to just play in a room full of legos? Of course, AutCon has it! Honestly, all that's left is for you to show up. And whether you show up excited or suspicious, I guarantee you'll leave AutCon feeling motivated and empowered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I wear ______?
A: We want you to feel empowered and comfortable, if that means wearing a suit and tie (hahaha), wearing your favorite sweatshirt, or dressing as your favorite anime character, do it! Keep in mind that you will be around others so please be sure that you are clean, free of strong smells, and that your body is covered. Shirts and shoes are required.
Q: What if I have disability needs beyond my autism? What accommodations are there?
A: It is important to us that everyone who attends AutCon is able to participate to the extent that they are comfortable. We are happy to make any necessary accommodations. Because we cannot presume to know what you need, we are relying on you to tell us what you need with enough time to make the necessary arrangements (at least a week). Please contact us via email at AutCon@svacademy.org to request specific accommodations.
Q: Do I have to be there the entire time?
A: Again, our priority is your comfort. If you can only be in social environments for a short amount of time, we’re cool with that. You can come when you want and leave when you want as long as you have a ticket. However, we will not be offering full or partial refunds based on time spent at the event. We do have quiet spaces available throughout campus if you just need a break or some quiet time.
Q: What do you mean by “adult”?
A: In order to attend the conference unaccompanied you must be between the ages of 18 and 99. Those under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. We have sessions geared toward different ages of the lifespan and hope you will attend those that appeal to you most.
Due to licensing constraints, childcare CANNOT be provided.
Q: I get anxious when visiting new places. Can I come visit the location before the conference?
A: Absolutely! But please schedule your visit. Email us at AutCon@svacademy.org to request a tour.
Q: What do you mean by an “autism-friendly environment”?
A: The spacious ScenicView Academy Campus is designed for autism. Sessions are spread out to avoid crowded hallways, and sessions are held in small (classroom sized) rooms to avoid sensory overwhelm. Additionally, we offer:
Q: What if I don't have an official diagnosis?
A: It would be inappropriate for us to require a "proof of diagnosis," and quite frankly, we don't really care. Whether you are self-diagnosed, officially diagnosed, or even just suspect that you may be on the spectrum, we invite you to come and be with your people. We like you.
Q: Is the event in person this year?
A: Yes! Part of what makes AutCon so great is the opportunity to mingle with like-minded peers. Now that we've made it through the worst of the pandemic, we're excited to welcome everyone back to this in-person event.
Q: Why are the tickets so expensive?
A: We do our best to keep the ticket price low so that everyone can attend, but there are many costs that go into hosting an event of this size. Please keep in mind that your ticket includes lunch, sessions, activities and an event T-shirt. We also allow folks to volunteer for the event in exchange for attendance. Let us know how we can work together by emailing AutCon@svacademy.org
A: We want you to feel empowered and comfortable, if that means wearing a suit and tie (hahaha), wearing your favorite sweatshirt, or dressing as your favorite anime character, do it! Keep in mind that you will be around others so please be sure that you are clean, free of strong smells, and that your body is covered. Shirts and shoes are required.
Q: What if I have disability needs beyond my autism? What accommodations are there?
A: It is important to us that everyone who attends AutCon is able to participate to the extent that they are comfortable. We are happy to make any necessary accommodations. Because we cannot presume to know what you need, we are relying on you to tell us what you need with enough time to make the necessary arrangements (at least a week). Please contact us via email at AutCon@svacademy.org to request specific accommodations.
Q: Do I have to be there the entire time?
A: Again, our priority is your comfort. If you can only be in social environments for a short amount of time, we’re cool with that. You can come when you want and leave when you want as long as you have a ticket. However, we will not be offering full or partial refunds based on time spent at the event. We do have quiet spaces available throughout campus if you just need a break or some quiet time.
Q: What do you mean by “adult”?
A: In order to attend the conference unaccompanied you must be between the ages of 18 and 99. Those under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. We have sessions geared toward different ages of the lifespan and hope you will attend those that appeal to you most.
Due to licensing constraints, childcare CANNOT be provided.
Q: I get anxious when visiting new places. Can I come visit the location before the conference?
A: Absolutely! But please schedule your visit. Email us at AutCon@svacademy.org to request a tour.
Q: What do you mean by an “autism-friendly environment”?
A: The spacious ScenicView Academy Campus is designed for autism. Sessions are spread out to avoid crowded hallways, and sessions are held in small (classroom sized) rooms to avoid sensory overwhelm. Additionally, we offer:
- Sensory Supports
- Dedicated quiet spaces
- Social Supports
- Natural lighting
- Limited unsolicited social contact
- Indoor and outdoor spaces
Q: What if I don't have an official diagnosis?
A: It would be inappropriate for us to require a "proof of diagnosis," and quite frankly, we don't really care. Whether you are self-diagnosed, officially diagnosed, or even just suspect that you may be on the spectrum, we invite you to come and be with your people. We like you.
Q: Is the event in person this year?
A: Yes! Part of what makes AutCon so great is the opportunity to mingle with like-minded peers. Now that we've made it through the worst of the pandemic, we're excited to welcome everyone back to this in-person event.
Q: Why are the tickets so expensive?
A: We do our best to keep the ticket price low so that everyone can attend, but there are many costs that go into hosting an event of this size. Please keep in mind that your ticket includes lunch, sessions, activities and an event T-shirt. We also allow folks to volunteer for the event in exchange for attendance. Let us know how we can work together by emailing AutCon@svacademy.org
Stuff to Look At/Read/Listen to About AutCon
Event Maps
ScenicView Academy Campus Map - click here to view the map
Event Map: Finding Your Way Around - click here to view the map
Directions for AutCon - click here to download directions
Friday Schedule
10:00-10:45 CHECK-IN & RESOURCE FAIR
- Please check-in at the front desk upon arrival to pick up your event T-shirt, program, maps, and individualized name badge (your name badge will also let others know the level of social interaction you are comfortable with).
- Stop by the resource fair and see what services are available in the community specifically for autistic adults.
- Take a look around, get to know the building. We want you feel comfortable here.
10:45-11:45 KEYNOTE ADDRESS, Dr. Damian Rodriguez
12:00-1:00 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 1
MPR 126 Red Flags for Gullible, Nice People: avoiding being conned, being love bombed, being scammed and being used - Mette Harrison
Room 155
Room 170 Dating 101 - ScenicView Academy Staff
Because autism is a developmental delay, many autistic adults do not develop an interest in dating until their 20s or even 30s. We often miss out on the introductory dating opportunities that high school typically provides simply because we weren't interested then. This interactive workshop will walk you through topics like: how to ask someone on a date, what to do on a date, and how to keep the conversation (and the relationship) moving forward.
Room 241
Room 245 Making Therapy Work For You - Sarah Heuser, CSW
Room 275 Independent Living Panel
Thinking of moving out on your own? Does making that leap seem risky? Would you even know where to start? These panelists are autists who live and work independently, and they have some great advice on how to make it happen for YOU!
Room 280
1:15-2:15 LUNCH
Head outside (west) to the pavilion for a barbeque and fun!
2:30-3:30 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 2
Room 126 Marriage and The Spectrum Panel, Moderated by Jared Stewart
Do you see yourself getting married one day? Are you one of the roughly 17% of those on the Spectrum who already are? What's stopping you from having the relationships you really want in your life? Anxiety? Dating? Courtship? Communication? Rigidity? Non-verbal issues? Come ask your questions about successful relationships to a panel of successfully married autistics. We may not have all the answers for you, but we'll be happy to share the ups and downs of our own experiences and what worked for us!
Room 155
Room 170 Quick Snacks for the Quidditch Match - Michael Davies
Is feeding yourself a challenge? Do you avoid cooking because you'd rather do anything else? Come learn to make a few healthy, fast, and easy snacks to get you on with the game!
Room 238
Room 241
Room 245
Room 275
Room 280 Building Your Resume and Marketing Yourself - Vanessa Perez
3:45-4:45 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 3
MPR 126
Room 170 Quick Snacks for the Quidditch Match - Michael Davies
Is feeding yourself a challenge? Do you avoid cooking because you'd rather do anything else? Come learn to make a few healthy, fast, and easy snacks to get you on with the game!
Room 241
Room 245
Room 275 Autistic Professionals Panel
The path to a fulfilling career is not always clear. What works for our peers may not work for us. Do you know the steps to get where you want to go? This panel of autistic professionals will share the path they took to get where they are, and will answer your questions regarding creating a career path that works for you.
5:00-8:00 SNACKS & SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
Make your own sword/LARPing (Friday Only)
Saturday Schedule
10:00-10:45 CHECK-IN
10:45-11:45 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 1
MPR 126
Room 170 Quick Snacks for the Quidditch Match, Michael Davies (Saturday only)
Is feeding yourself a challenge? Do you avoid cooking because you'd rather do anything else? Come learn to make a few healthy, fast, and easy snacks to get you on with the game!
Room 238
Room 245
Room 275
Room 280
12:00-1:00 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 2
MPR 126 Dating 101 - ScenicView Academy Staff
Because autism is a developmental delay, many autistic adults do not develop an interest in dating until their 20s or even 30s. We often miss out on the introductory dating opportunities that high school typically provides simply because we were not interested then. This interactive workshop will walk you through topics like: how to ask someone on a date, what to do on a date, and how to keep the conversation (and the relationship) moving forward.
Room 170 Quick Snacks for the Quidditch Match - Michael Davies (Saturday only)
Is feeding yourself a challenge? Do you avoid cooking because you'd rather do anything else? Come learn to make a few healthy, fast, and easy snacks to get you on with your day.
Room 238
Room 245
Room 275
Room 280
1:15-2:15 LUNCH
Head outside (west) to the pavilion for a barbeque and fun with friends.
2:30-3:30 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 3
Atrium Cosplay Exhibit
Our cosplayers will be available in museum a museum format, meaning they will stay in the same space, and you can stop and just look at them, or you are welcome to interact with them.
Room 126
Room 170 There's an App for That! - Josh Olivas
Admit it, sometimes we need prompting to get things done. Your smart phone is a socially acceptable prompter, and something you always have with you! In this presentation, Josh will demonstrate a host of apps that can help you accomplish your goals, and support your executive functioning.
Room 238
Room 241
Room 245
Room 273 Pottery and Ceramics, Jared Davis and Melanie Evans
Come paint a premade item, or try your hand at the pottery wheels. Yes, we have a kiln.
Room 275
Room 280
Near Room 280
3:45-4:45 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 4
Room 126 Reddit in Real Life Panel
Reddit has all the answers, and this panel is like Reddit but IRL. These brave souls are some of our AutCon trailblazers, and they are willing to answer any question on any topic!
Room 245
Room 241
Room 275
Room 280 The Lies We Tell Ourselves: How anxiety gets in our way - Amy Wadsworth
So much of success in adulthood depends on our ability to make logical, deliberate choices that move us toward self-actualization. What do we do when our emotions—and our anxieties—try to hijack our plans? Amy gives a formula to help us slow down our thought processes and identify where anxieties may step in and try to take over
Near Room 280
5:00-8:00 SNACKS & SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
- Show your ticket upon arrival to pick up your event T-shirt and individualized name badge (your name badge will also let others know the level of social interaction you are comfortable with).
- Take a look around, get to know the building. We want you feel comfortable here.
10:45-11:45 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 1
MPR 126
Room 170 Quick Snacks for the Quidditch Match, Michael Davies (Saturday only)
Is feeding yourself a challenge? Do you avoid cooking because you'd rather do anything else? Come learn to make a few healthy, fast, and easy snacks to get you on with the game!
Room 238
Room 245
Room 275
Room 280
12:00-1:00 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 2
MPR 126 Dating 101 - ScenicView Academy Staff
Because autism is a developmental delay, many autistic adults do not develop an interest in dating until their 20s or even 30s. We often miss out on the introductory dating opportunities that high school typically provides simply because we were not interested then. This interactive workshop will walk you through topics like: how to ask someone on a date, what to do on a date, and how to keep the conversation (and the relationship) moving forward.
Room 170 Quick Snacks for the Quidditch Match - Michael Davies (Saturday only)
Is feeding yourself a challenge? Do you avoid cooking because you'd rather do anything else? Come learn to make a few healthy, fast, and easy snacks to get you on with your day.
Room 238
Room 245
Room 275
Room 280
1:15-2:15 LUNCH
Head outside (west) to the pavilion for a barbeque and fun with friends.
2:30-3:30 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 3
Atrium Cosplay Exhibit
Our cosplayers will be available in museum a museum format, meaning they will stay in the same space, and you can stop and just look at them, or you are welcome to interact with them.
Room 126
Room 170 There's an App for That! - Josh Olivas
Admit it, sometimes we need prompting to get things done. Your smart phone is a socially acceptable prompter, and something you always have with you! In this presentation, Josh will demonstrate a host of apps that can help you accomplish your goals, and support your executive functioning.
Room 238
Room 241
Room 245
Room 273 Pottery and Ceramics, Jared Davis and Melanie Evans
Come paint a premade item, or try your hand at the pottery wheels. Yes, we have a kiln.
Room 275
Room 280
Near Room 280
3:45-4:45 CONCURRENT SESSIONS 4
Room 126 Reddit in Real Life Panel
Reddit has all the answers, and this panel is like Reddit but IRL. These brave souls are some of our AutCon trailblazers, and they are willing to answer any question on any topic!
Room 245
Room 241
Room 275
Room 280 The Lies We Tell Ourselves: How anxiety gets in our way - Amy Wadsworth
So much of success in adulthood depends on our ability to make logical, deliberate choices that move us toward self-actualization. What do we do when our emotions—and our anxieties—try to hijack our plans? Amy gives a formula to help us slow down our thought processes and identify where anxieties may step in and try to take over
Near Room 280
5:00-8:00 SNACKS & SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
PRESENTERS
Presenters and panelists at AutCon are adults on the autism spectrum (unless otherwise specified). Our presenter list is updated as presenters are confirmed. Know someone who should be part of our event? Tell us about them in the link below.
NOn-Autistic Presenters
More to be announced! Keep checking back.
Support this unique event, Become A Sponsor Today!
Kari Bushman, Community Engagement Officer
ScenicView Academy
(801) 342-3463
karib@svacademy.org
ScenicView Academy
(801) 342-3463
karib@svacademy.org
Gold Sponsors ($5000 or more) will receive logo placement on all advertising leading up to the event, signage and verbal recognition at the event, logo placement in event program and on event T-shirt
Silver Sponsors ($3000) will receive verbal recognition at the event, logo placement in event program and on event T-shirt.
Friend of ScenicView Academy ($500) will receive logo placement in event program and at the event.
ScenicView Academy is a 501 (c) (3) public charity, all donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. (Fed Tax I.D. Number 20-3604973)
Silver Sponsors ($3000) will receive verbal recognition at the event, logo placement in event program and on event T-shirt.
Friend of ScenicView Academy ($500) will receive logo placement in event program and at the event.
ScenicView Academy is a 501 (c) (3) public charity, all donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. (Fed Tax I.D. Number 20-3604973)
