Come gather at safe, social space

Editor's note: Kelly Wilhelm, a licensed independent social worker, serves the community as a clinical mental health therapist. She's also the region's Erie County representative for the National Association of Social Workers. She previewed an upcoming event. SANDUSKY — For the past six months, I have been developing a safe gathering for our neurodivergent young adults, ages 18-39. Neurodivergence refers to differences in how the brain functions, impacting how people think, learn, process information and behave, compared to the neurotypical population. There is a huge need for resources and gatherings for those who are autistic, socially anxious, those who struggle with attention deficits, etc. in the area, especially for those who are higher functioning who would normally avoid social gatherings due to these deficits or insecurities of fitting in. I have been working with Renee Leber, co-director for the National Association of Social Workers in the Erie County region, who also owns and operates The Caring Collective. Together we have worked to secure the Sandusky Book Bar with Janie Ahner, in Sandusky, to create a safe space for those who are neurodivergent to gather and have a sense of community while potentially building friendships. The ultimate goal of this is to continue to have these gatherings in multiple counties in surrounding communities where they can improve the mental health and social and emotional functioning with this targeted population. The Sandusky Book Bar will be closed to the general public during this event to ensure inclusion. This event will be from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Saturday at the Sandusky Book Bar, 2101 W. Perkins Ave., Sandusky. There will be light snacks, and beverages will be available for purchase during the event. Anything with alcohol will need proper identification. We just wish to spread awareness of this event in the community to allow others to attend, as May is Mental Health Awareness Month.