NAAW 2026 Workshop Series -Building Inclusive Communities Together

In many Asian communities, conversations about disability, neurodiversity, and mental health are still shaped by silence, stigma, and misunderstanding.

NAAW 2026 hopes to change that.

Through a four-part online workshop series, we aim to create a safe and inclusive space where families, caregivers, youth, adults with disabilities, educators, healthcare professionals, and community members can learn, connect, and support one another.

Because building an inclusive community begins with understanding.

A Community Workshop Series for Everyone

This workshop series welcomes:

• Parents and caregivers of children with special needs

• Youth and adults with disabilities

• Family members and caregivers

• Educators, healthcare providers, and community professionals

• Anyone who wants to better understand disability, inclusion, and mental health within Asian communities

No shame.

No judgment.

Just a community learning to support one another better.

What Participants Will Learn

Participants will gain practical knowledge, community resources, and tools to better navigate everyday challenges, including:

• Ontario’s special education and disability support systems

• Advocacy and accessing community resources

• Employment pathways and workplace support

• Transition planning for adulthood and independent living

• Mental health and caregiver wellbeing

• Building stronger support networks within the community

Workshop Schedule

1. Education & Advocacy: Navigating the School System

Learn about:

• Individual Education Plans (IEPs)

• School-family collaboration

• Educational accommodations and support services

📅 June 1, 2026 (Monday)

🕖 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

2. Employment Pathways for Youth & Adults with Disabilities

Explore:

• Employment support programs

• Workplace readiness and career development

• Community resources and supported employment opportunities

• Pathways toward greater independence and inclusion

📅 June 2, 2026 (Tuesday)

🕖 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

3. Transition to Adulthood & Planning Ahead

Learn about:

• Changes to services and support after age 18

• Financial planning and RDSP resources

• Long-term planning and independent living considerations

• Government benefits and community supports

📅 June 3, 2026 (Wednesday)

🕖 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

4. Mental Health & Burnout for Caregivers

Topics include:

• Recognizing stress and caregiver burnout

• Emotional wellness and coping strategies

• Building healthy support systems

• Supporting caregivers within our communities

📅 June 4, 2026 (Thursday)

🕖 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Why This Matters

Many Asian families continue to face barriers when seeking support, resources, or understanding around disability and mental health.

Some families struggle in silence.

Some caregivers carry overwhelming responsibilities alone.

Some individuals spend years trying to find belonging and acceptance.

Through this workshop series, we hope to encourage more open conversations, reduce stigma, and strengthen community connections.

Because true inclusion means ensuring that no one feels isolated, invisible, or left behind.

Join Us

Whether you are seeking support, looking for resources, or hoping to better understand others, you are warmly welcome to join us.

Together, we can build stronger, more compassionate, and more inclusive communities.

June 1- June 4 7:00–9:00 PM

Online (Zoom) Join meeting (Meeting ID: 952 8780 8978 Passcode: 110326)