Finding Joy in the Secret World of Autism Presentation; Rochester, MN
2026-04-18 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago)
Join the Rochester Area Autism Association in hosting parent and advocate Kate Swenson as she reflects back on her family’s journey through an autism diagnosis, early intervention, and navigating a world not made for Cooper, and the emotional toll these processes can take on a family.

In her talk, Kate will discuss the transformation she made as not only a parent, but as a person, and the support that parents need from professionals, family members, and those within their community to help their family adjust to this new chapter of life. This presentation will inspire, bring laughter and tears, and ultimately be a conversation starter for the listeners.

Q & A to follow the keynote talk. Questions can be emailed in advance to: director@rochesterautism.org or text 507-226-7037. Kate will be available following the Q & A for book signing. Forever Boy and Autism Out Loud will be available at the talk.

Event Details:
Saturday, April 18, 2026 5:00 PM Mayo High School Auditorium-1420 11th Avenue SE, Rochester, MN 55904 Enter through Door 1
Doors open at 4:30 PM

Get Tickets Here: https://my.onecause.com/…/vevt:87b1752c-e4a5…/home/story

Accessible seating is available upon request. If you or a member of your party have any accessibility needs, please let us know in advance so we can ensure a comfortable experience for you.

Kindly contact us at director@rochesterautism.org with any requests or questions.

About Kate Swenson:Kate Swenson is a nationally recognized autism advocate, speaker, and the creator of the blog and social media platform Finding Cooper’s Voice, where she shares authentic insights into parenting a child with autism. She is the co-author of the bestselling book Autism Out Loud, a powerful and unfiltered collection of stories from autism parents that amplifies diverse experiences within the autism community. Through her writing, speaking, and advocacy work, Kate has built a supportive online community of hundreds of thousands of families and continues to use her voice to promote acceptance, inclusion, and hope.

Kate Swenson Author Event, Lakeville, MN
2026-04-21 18:00 - 20:00
Tickets are on sale now!

Kate Swenson is a Minnesota-based author, speaker, and advocate best known as the voice behind the widely followed platform Finding Cooper’s Voice.She began sharing her family’s story after her son Cooper was diagnosed with severe, nonverbal autism, writing with raw honesty about the joys, grief, humor, and resilience that come with special needs parenting.

Kate is also the author of the memoir Forever Boy, and her work has touched millions of parents, caregivers, and educators navigating disability, motherhood, and unconditional love. Through her writing and speaking, Kate creates connection and reminds families they are not alone.
Now you can hear Kate speak in person!
April 21, 20256:00 PMLakeville South High School

This event is open to the public, and we especially encourage parents, family members, friends, caregivers, and educators of children with special needs to attend.

Proceeds support the Family Connections Special Education PTO, helping strengthen programs and resources for students and families in our community.
Thank you to our sponsor, Pettinelli Financial Partners, for helping make this meaningful event possible.

Illinois State University; 4th Annual Autism Conference
2026-04-29 | Illinois State University, 200 N University St, Normal, Illinois
The Autism Conference
Sharing Knowledge • Inspiring Action
April 29, 2026
Where: Illinois State University – Bone Student Center
200 N University St, Normal, IL 61761
In-person OR Virtual
The 2026 Autism Conference: Sharing Knowledge, Inspiring Action, on April 29, 2026, brings together educators, families, caregivers, and professionals for a day of meaningful learning and connection. The conference features keynote speaker Kate Swenson, bestselling author and creator of Finding Cooper’s Voice, whose powerful, deeply personal storytelling bridges family lived experience and professional practice while highlighting parenting, autism, and the importance of inclusive, supportive communities. The conference program includes a lived experience panel, repeated breakout sessions, and a mini-workshop on “Today’s ABA” presented by Dr. Adithyan Rajaraman, Ph.D., BCBA-D of FTF Behavioral Consulting, an experienced behavior analyst known for translating complex behavior-analytic concepts into accessible, practical lessons. Dedicated time to visit exhibitors and a parent panel are also included, providing additional opportunities for learning, networking, and connection across perspectives and stages of the autism journey.
If you are registering with a student promo code, you will be required to use your school email address. If you have questions regarding the promo codes, please click the Contact Us button at the bottom of the screen.
Registration also includes a full breakfast buffet, lunch buffet, and parking validation.
Professional Development Hours Available
If you need additional accommodations, please email acharmo1@ilstu.edu

2025 Care for the Caregiver Retreat (Owensboro, Kentucky)
2026-04-30 - 2026-05-02
We are thrilled to share that the 2026 Care for the Caregiver Conference will be hosted in Owensboro, Kentucky, April 30–May 2 — right in the heart of Kentucky Derby weekend! There’s no better time to experience the beauty, culture, and hospitality of the Bluegrass State. We are so excited to partner with Puzzle Pieces to bring you this life changing event.

Known as the Bluegrass Music Capital of the World, Owensboro offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop for this year’s event. Caregivers can:

Rest. Relax. Socialize. Learn. Connect. Dance. And…
Take in live music and explore the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum;

Stroll through a charming, walkable downtown filled with unique boutiques and locally owned restaurants;

Relax by the Ohio River at Smothers Park, named one of the top riverfronts in America.

Owensboro is a hidden gem — warm, welcoming, and the perfect place for caregivers to step away from their daily responsibilities, invest in themselves, and recharge.

Mark your calendars now: April 30–May 2, 2026. Join us in Owensboro for a weekend of renewal, connection, and celebration you won’t forget!

Early Bird Registration will open up in January 2026. For more information and stay connected, visit our website here: https://morethanproject.org/care-for-the-caregiver-retreat/
