Finding Cooper's Voice | Welcome to the Secret World of Autism

Keynote Presentation - St. Cloud, MN
2025-03-27 18:00 - 20:30 (America/Chicago) | Tech High School, 4200 33rd Street South, St. Cloud, MN
Join me in St. Cloud, Minnesota at Tech High School on March 27th at 6:00 pm for my keynote presentation, Finding Joy in the Secret World of Autism.

Autism Out Loud Book Launch Party - Stillwater, MN
2025-03-31 17:00 - 20:00 | Lowell Inn, 102 N 2nd Street, Stillwater, MN, 55082, United States
I can’t believe in just 62 days, the world will get to read our new book, Autism Out Loud. When we started writing, it felt like a lifetime away.

And now it’s so close!

Join Carrie, Adrian, and I for our book launch party in Stillwater, MN on March 31.

Tickets here: https://valleybookseller.com/…/autism-out-loud-book-launch We think this will sell out so grab your ticket asap!

Can’t make it to Minnesota? You can still preorder a copy of the book signed by all of us! ORDER HERE: Autism Out Loud Signed Copies! | Valley Bookseller

AUTISM OUT LOUD Book Release & Signing - New York City
2025-04-01 18:00 - 19:30 | The Corner Bookstore, 1313 Madison Avenue at 93rd Street, New York City
Kate Swenson, Adrian Wood and Carrie Cariello celebrate the publication of Autism Out Loud

April 1 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Location: The Corner Bookstore:
1313 Madison Avenue at 93rd Street, New York City 10128

Please register here: SignUp Sheet | Evite
Kate Swenson, Adrian Wood and Carrie Cariello are from different parts of the country and backgrounds, but they were brought together by a singular experience: they are each a mother to a child with autism. Together they have shared laughter, tears, victories and the unconditional love that molds their lives.
Kate, Adrian and Carrie have children with very different autism profiles, and in Autism Out Loud they write about their unique experiences on a variety of topics, from diagnosis to caregiving, schooling and aging. Through their varied stories and lessons they’ve learned, these incredible women provide a glimpse of what to expect on the autism journey and show parents that they are not alone.

Autism Mother to Mother Luncheon - Chambersburg, PA
2025-04-05 | Grand Point Church, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
As a mother of a child with autism, you are invited to join us for a time of rest, relaxation, renewal and celebration. You won’t want to miss this event, offered at no charge. You will enjoy a catered lunch, a great speaker, gifts, the opportunity to network with other mothers and local resource providers, along with a few other surprises! Free, limited childcare will be available.
Save the Date Information:
Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
REGISTER HERE: Autism Mother to Mother Luncheon – An annual event in central Pennsylvania that recognizes mothers of children with autism
Grand Point Church, Chambersburg, PA will be the host site and offer the luncheon just as it has previously.
This year we are excited to able to offer two additional sites for the luncheon:

New Love in Christ Church
6003 Jonestown Road
Harrisburg, PA

Church of the Good Shepherd
1500 Quentin Rd
Lebanon, PA

The Lebanon and Harrisburg locations will also be holding a luncheon and sharing the music and speaker via simulcast from Chambersburg.
We will update this website and our FB Group as more details become available.
Registration will be required for all locations and will become available around February 22, 2025.
Looking forward to seeing you in 2025!
Resource Fair: TBA
Luncheon Table Viewing: TBA
Luncheon Time: TBA
Location: Grand Point Church (Chambersburg, PA) plus two additional sites: New Love in Christ Church (Harrisburg, PA) and Church of the Good Shepherd (Lebanon, PA)
Registration Opens: TBA
Speaker: Kate Swenson

Kate Swenson Book Release Party; Enola, PA
2025-04-05 17:00 - 19:00 | Cupboard Maker Books, 157 N Enola Rd, Enola, PA
Time & Location
Apr 05, 2025, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Cupboard Maker Books, 157 N Enola Rd, Enola, PA 17025, USA

About the event

In this moving narrative of resilience and pure love, three mothers share their experiences and learnings about life alongside autism. Kate Swenson, Adrian Wood, and Carrie Cariello are from different parts of the country and backgrounds, but they were brought together by a singular experience: they are each a mother to a child with autism.
The incredible Kate Swenson will be at Cupboard Maker Books signing her new release ‘Autism Out Loud’ on May 5th, from 5:00PM-7:00PM. This is an event you won’t want to miss! This ticket gets you the book, a seat, and guaranteed access to Kate’s signing line.
*Due to limited seating, we ask that if you are able to stand during Kate’s talk, that you consider purchasing the standing room only ticket.*
Please purchase a ticket here: Kate Swenson Book Release Party | Cupboardmaker

Celebrate Autism Awareness Day - Warren, Pennsylvania
2025-04-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Struthers Library Theater, Warren, PA

Autism Out Loud Book Signing and Meet and Greet - Buffalo, NY
2025-04-24 17:00 - 19:00 | Jazzboline Restaurant & Bar, 5010 Main Street Amherst, Buffalo, NY
Light fare and cash bar, and books will also be available to purchase from Talking Leaves Bookstore!
Please reserve your spot here: Autism Out Loud Book Event Tickets, Thu, Apr 24, 2025 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

Celebrate Autism Acceptance Day - Erie, Pennsylvania
2025-04-25 09:00 - 11:00 | MN
Celebrate Autism Acceptance Day
April 25, 2025
9am
Kate Swenson • Mom, Author & Advocate
Penn State Behrend’s Mcgarvey Hall
Erie, Pennsylvania
Tickets are $20

BUY TICKETS HERE: Celebrate Autism Acceptance Day | Lakeshore Community Services

Book Signing and Meet and Greet - Raleigh, NC - SAVE THE DATE
2025-05-01 17:30 - 20:00 | MN

Author Signing Event - Save the Date - Naperville, IL
2025-05-02 18:00 - 20:00 | MN
Save the date for a book signing event with Kate, Carrie, and Adrian in Naperville, Illinois.

REGISTER HERE: https://www.eventcombo.com/e/Author-Event-with-Kate-Swenson-Carrie-Cariello-and-Adrian-WoodAutism-Out-Loud-74646

Author Signing Event - Save the Date - Austin, TX
2025-05-14 19:00 - 21:00 | MN
Wednesday, May 14, 2025 – 6:00pm
Free
BookPeople

603 N. Lamar Blvd

Austin, TX 78703

RSVP Here!

BookPeople & Kate Swenson, Adrian Wood, Carrie Cariello proudly present Autism Out Loud
To reserve your spot and learn more about this event, please visit the Eventbrite link above.
Thank you for supporting your local independent bookstore! You are not only supporting a local business – you’re showing publishers that they should continue sending authors to BookPeople and we appreciate it.

Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum, from Diagnosis to Young Adulthood (Hardcover)

By Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, Adrian Wood
$32.99
ISBN: 9780778368366
Availability: Coming Soon – Available for Pre-Order Now
Published: Park Row – April 1st, 2025

Add to Wish List

We ask that you register via Eventbrite if you plan to attend. Not only will this secure your spot in the case of a sold out event, it will ensure that you receive communication regarding event updates & guidelines, or in the unlikely event of a venue change or cancellation.
Please note that while many of our events offer free registrations, some may require the purchase of a ticket for entry. Check the Eventbrite page for details!

The 4th Annual Care for the Caregiver Retreat - San Antonio, Texas
2025-05-15 - 2025-05-17 | San Antonio River Walk, San Antonio, 78205, United States
Finding Cooper’s Voice & The More Than Project Present
The 4th Annual
Care for the Caregiver Retreat
May 15th-17th, 2025
San Antonio River Walk
Caregivers, Escape to a Weekend of Rest, Renewal, and Connection.
This two-day event will include two full days of speakers and breakout sessions at the Holiday Inn on the San Antonio Riverwalk. The event will feature Adrian Wood of Tales of an Educated Debutante, Carrie Cariello of What Color is Monday, and Kate Swenson of Finding Cooper’s Voice and a celebration of their new book, Autism Out Loud. This event will be focused on you, the caregiver and helping you learn, make a friend, feel seen, rest, have a blast, and more. You won’t want to miss this life changing event.
LEARN MORE HERE!

Tickets will be available in January 2025. This event will sell out fast. If you would like priority registration, a full week early, please join Kate’s supporter group on Facebook.

Join Facebook group HERE

Caregiver's Connection Support Group
2025-06-19 18:30 - 20:30 | 328 Grill, St. Paul Park, Minnesota
Coops’ Troops MinnesotaCaregivers Connection, Support Group

Please join us at the next Caregivers Connection, Support Group with Kate Swenson from Finding Coopers Voice.
Date: Thursday June 19, 2025Time: 5:30.m. – 8:30 p.m. CST

RSVP HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/…/30E0E4FA4AC22ABFB6…

NEW LOCATION!!!!328 GRILLLocated inside the American Legion Post 98328 Broadway Ave,Saint Paul Park, MN651-459-8016

Support Group will be held in back room area in the lower level.
Food and drinks will be available for purchase on-site
Group presentation and conversation will start around 6:15

Speaker: Mary BakalarsARC of La Crosse, WI ChapterTOPIC: AdvocacyADULTS ONLY. All parents and caretakers welcome.

Please register by Sunday 6/15/25 with who is attending. There is a limit of 50 slots available.
Any questions please reach out to Theresa Duffy at theduffy1028@gmail.com

Autism eXchange Annual Conference and Staycation powered by Autism United of Wisconsin
2025-07-11 - 2025-07-12 | Wisconsin Dells
We’re thrilled to invite you to the Autism eXchange Annual Conference and Staycation, a gathering dedicated to advancing understanding, support, and innovation in Autism research and services in your community! This conference brings together a diverse group of experts, advocates, caregivers, and individuals on the Autism Spectrum to share insights and strategies that make a difference.
This event and all the social opportunities are tailored to ensure a comfortable and inclusive environment for all, including individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Learn more here: Autism eXchange Annual Conference and Staycation powered by Autism United of Wisconsin Registration
Event Details:

Date: Friday, July 11th – Saturday, July 12th, 2025
Time: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. plus social engagements in evening
Location: Wilderness Resort & Waterpark and Glacier Canyon Lodge and Online Platform available

What to Expect: At the Autism eXchange, you’ll have the opportunity to:

Engage with expert speakers presenting the latest research and support tactics in Autism.
Participate in interactive workshops focused on practical skills and resources.
Network with other attendees to foster new connections and collaborations.
Attend panel discussions that explore lived experiences, advocacy, and future directions in Autism support.
Have fun in sensory modified environments with people who don’t judge and welcome you just as you are!

We’re looking forward to an inspiring and impactful event. Join us in our mission to foster greater understanding and support for the Autism community! Together. Today. Tomorrow.

More Than a Caregiver Respite Retreat at Moon Beach
2025-09-11 - 2025-09-14 | Moon Beach, St. Germain, Wisconsin
The More Than Project is hosting its 4th annual More Than a Caregiver Respite Retreat at Moon Beach in St. Germain, Wisconsin.
The camp sits on 110 acres between Eagle River and St. Germain on the shores of Moon Lake and Little Saint Germain Lake. Enjoy quiet and clear waters, mixed forests with many nature trails, an abundance of wildlife, and some of the best stargazing around!
Caregivers often feel isolated and misunderstood. This retreat offers a break from daily stress in a beautiful Wisconsin camp setting.
During the Caregivers Retreat, you can share your story, life experiences and meet others who understand what it means to support a loved one with special needs – in a safe, supportive environment where caregivers can interact and learn from one another.
This event will be focused on you, the caregiver and helping you learn, make a friend, feel seen, and more. You won’t want to miss this life changing event.
LEARN MORE & REGISTER HERE

Out Loud & Together; An Autism Caregiver Retreat
2025-10-17 - 2025-10-18 | Jupiter, Florida
OUT LOUD & TOGETHERAn Autism Caregiver Retreat

TICKETS HERE: OUT LOUD & TOGETHER
October 17–18, 2025
Els Center of Excellence | Jupiter, FL

Friday, October 17 – Table Talk & Campus Tour
Location: O’Donnell Pavilion | Els Center of Excellence

Saturday, October 18 – Main Event Panel Discussion & SocialLocation: Auditorium & Sensory Garden | Els Center of Excellence
Presented by The Learning Academy PTO, a registered 501(c)(3) organization.501(c)(3) • EIN 47-2380123

An evening of inspiration and real conversation with the Autism Out Loud authors and special moderator Dr. Michael Alessandri, Executive Director of UM CARD and Board Chairman of Els for Autism.

Connect in an intimate setting with Kate Swenson, Adrian Wood, and Carrie Cariello, authors of Autism Out Loud. Enjoy a light lunch, refreshments, and a guided tour of the ELS for AUTISM campus. A heartfelt roundtable discussion and personalized book signing will follow, featuring voices from the local autism community.

Experience a powerful panel discussion on the autism journey, followed by a casual social hour in the beautiful Sensory Garden with wine, light bites, and community connection.

All guests will receive a signed copy of Autism Out Loud as a special keepsake.

Coop's Troops Sensory Friendly Trunk or Treat
2025-10-25 14:30 - 16:00 | We Rock the Spectrum Gym – Woodbury, 2101 Wooddale Drive Suite E., Woodbury, MN, United States
Please join our Finding Cooper’s Voice families for some Trunk or Treat Fun!

This event is for individuals of all ages and abilities with disabilities and their families. Siblings are encouraged to join us for fun!

Saturday, October 25th

Located in the back of the parking lot at WE ROCK THE SPECTRUM
2101 Wooddale Drive Suite E.Woodbury, Minnesota

Event will be held outdoors in the parking lot of the Gym.

DATE: Saturday 10/25/25
EVENT TIME: 2:30 – 4:00 P.M. CT
SET-UP TIME: 1:30 – 2:20 P.M. CT

Costumes Encouraged
Don’t forget your treat bucket!

There are two ways to sign-up!!!

REGISTER HERE: Coop’s Troops: Coop’s Trunk or Treat Event 2025

We are looking for families to sign-up to decorate their vehicles, provide & hand out treats and/or non-edible trinkets
OR
If you are just coming to trick or treat, let us know how many in your family will be coming!

In addition:
We are looking for local sponsors to join us in the fun! If you know someone that is interested in sponsoring a vehicle, please share the details of this event and have them reach out to Kate at findingcoopersvoice@gmail.com or Theresa at theduffy1028@gmail.com

Caregiver Connection Support Group
2025-11-20 17:30 - 20:00 | 328 Grill, St. Paul Park, Minnesota
Caregivers Connection, Support Group

Please join us at the next Caregivers Connection, Support Group with Kate Swenson from Finding Coopers Voice.

Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025
Time: 5:30.m. – 8:30 p.m. CST
Initial food and drink need to be ordered by 6:00 p.m.
REGISTER HERE: Coops’ Troops Minnesota: Caregivers Connection, Support Group
NEW LOCATION!!!!
328 GRILL
Located inside the American Legion Post 98
328 Broadway Ave,
Saint Paul Park, MN
651-459-8016
Support Group will be held in back room area in the lower level.
Food and drinks will be available for purchase on-site
Group presentation and conversation will start around 6:15
Speaker:
Highland Friendship Club
St. Paul, MN
Overview — Highland Friendship Club
TOPIC: Presenting on the history of HFC, their mission, programming and how to become a member.
Organization details: Highland Friendship Club is a nonprofit serving teens and adults with disabilities, age 13 and up. We provide social programs for our members to learn life skills, make friends, and build community. We offer more than 35 programs a week from cooking, art, book club, swimming, game hour and more
ADULTS ONLY. All parents and caretakers welcome.
Please register by Sunday 11/16/25 with who is attending. There is a limit of 40 slots available.
Any questions please reach out to Theresa Duffy at theduffy1028@gmail.com
Next meeting TBD
FINDING COOPER’S VOICE & THE MORE THAN PROJECT PHOTO & VIDEO RELEASE STATEMENT:
Unless you state otherwise, attending an event with FCV or The More than Project you are granting permission for the use of your family, self and/or your likeness in any photographs, videos, or other digital media (“photo”) in any and all of its publications, including web-based publications, without payment or other consideration.
If you do not want any digital footprint for yourself and /or your family then notify Kate at the start of each event.

You're Invited to our Unseen Documentary Viewing
2026-01-05 18:00 - 19:30 | Woodbury 10 Theater
The documentary, “UNSEEN: How We’re Failing Parent Caregivers & Why It Matters,” opens up an important discussion about the challenges facing many parent caregivers and what we can all do to help.

Join us for a viewing of the film at 6:00 pm. on Monday, January 5th, at the Woodbury 10 Theater in Woodbury, Minnesota.

This event is free (donations greatly appreciated) but we do ask that you register.

Register here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0E4FA4AC22ABFB6-60918416-documentary

UNSEEN, How We’re Failing Parent Caregivers & Why It Matters

The More Than Project and Finding Cooper’s Voice is bringing this one-night showing to Woodbury 10’s local movie theater to watch the honest portrayal of challenges faced by Caregivers.

Date: Monday 1/5/26
Arrival Time: 6:00 p.m. Central Time
Must Check-In by: 6:15 p.m.
Movie Start Time: 6:20 p.m.
Movie Length: 1 hour
Costs: FREE, Donations Appreciated

Adult ONLY!!

Following the presentation, we’ll have an open discussion about the documentary. You are welcome to stay for it.

You will be responsible for any snacks or drinks. No outside food is allowed.

Every registration to this event will bring us together to be heard and seen.

The More Than Project, Kate Swenson and Amanda Deluca’s nonprofit that focuses on the caregivers who care for people with disabilities.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to bring these events to life, and with your help, we can continue hosting future gatherings. Please consider donating $5.00 to The More Than Project to keep these experiences going.

Thank you for supporting our mission, your support is invaluable.

Community Presentation at Ashwaubenon High School Auditorium
2026-01-19 18:00 - 19:30 | Ashwaubenon High School Auditorium
We are pleased to invite families and caregivers to a special evening presentation featuring Kate Swenson, nationally recognized author and parent advocate, on Monday, January 19.
Event Details
📅 Date: Monday, January 19
🕕 Time: 6:00–7:30 PM
📍 Location: Ashwaubenon High School Auditorium
🚪 Entrance: Please enter through the front doors
About the Presentation
Finding Joy in the Secret World of Autism – General / Family Focused
Join parent and advocate Kate Swenson as she reflects on her family’s journey through an autism diagnosis, early intervention, and transition to school services. Kate will share the emotional realities families experience, the importance of community and professional support, and the transformation she experienced as both a parent and a person. Through laughter and tears, she brings the secret world of autism to life.
The evening will include a presentation, a question-and-answer session, and an opportunity to purchase Kate’s books.
Register here: Kate Swenson Community Presentation – Family & Caregiver RSVP

Caregivers Connection, Support Group with Guest: Minnesota Independent College and Community (MICC)
2026-01-21 17:30 - 20:30 | 328 Grill, St. Paul Park, Minnesota
Please join us at the next Caregivers Connection, Support Group with Kate Swenson from Finding Coopers Voice.

REGISTER HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/…/30E0E4FA4AC22ABFB6…

Date: Wednesday January 21, 2026Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. CSTInitial food and drink need to be ordered by 6:00 p.m.

LOCATION:328 GRILLLocated inside the American Legion Post 98328 Broadway Ave,Saint Paul Park, MN

Support Group will be held in back room area in the lower level. This is a fantastic way to meet other parents in the area while enjoying a meal and learning about resources in the area.

Food and drinks will be available for purchase on-site
Group presentation and conversation will start around 6:15

Speaker:
Minnesota Independent College and Community (MICC)
Richfield, MN
Homepage – MICC (Minnesota Independence College and Community) Neurodivergent Adult Living / Education

TOPIC: Presenting on the supports and services the MICC community offers our special need adults, along with a focus on college program, how it supports social development and independent living.

Organization details:
Since 1996, MICC has provided transformative education and training for autistic and neurodivergent adults to live independently, work purposefully and thrive in community. From our home in Richfield, MN, MICC has cultivated a broad network of public and private partnerships to ensure accessibility to our programs and opportunities for MICC participants across Minnesota and nationwide.
Within our innovative framework of hands-on, skills-based learning and caring guidance, MICC participants accomplish things they never imagined, from performing daily living tasks and building self-sufficiency to developing and sustaining a career, support system and lifelong relationships. Within the safety and freedom of our inclusive community, MICC participants begin to see themselves in a new light, gaining the confidence they need to build the lives they want to live.

ADULTS ONLY. All parents and caretakers welcome.
Please register by Sunday 1/18/26 with who is attending. There is a limit of 40 slots available.
Any questions please reach out to Theresa Duffy at theduffy1028@gmail.com

Caregiver Connection Support Group; St. Paul Park, MN
2026-03-18 17:30 - 20:30 | 328 Grill, St. Paul Park, Minnesota
Please join us at the next Caregivers Connection, Support Group with Kate Swenson from Finding Coopers Voice.

Our support group is free to attend but we ask that you register so we can plan for space: https://www.signupgenius.com/…/30E0E4FA4AC22ABFB6…

Date: Wednesday March 18, 2026
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. CST
Initial food and drink need to be ordered by 6:00 p.m.

LOCATION:
328 GRILL
Located inside the American Legion Post 98
328 Broadway Ave,
Saint Paul Park, MN
651-459-8016

Support Group will be held in back-room area in the lower level.

Food and drinks will be available for purchase on-site

Group presentation and conversation will start around 6:15

Speaker:
Kristin Salseg – CDS Coordinator CDCS
Topic: Dakota County CDCS Waivers

ADULTS ONLY. All parents and caretakers welcome.

Please register by Sunday 3/15/26 with who is attending. There is a limit of 40 slots available.

Any questions please reach out to Theresa Duffy at theduffy1028@gmail.com
Next meeting: May 2026

Bowling at Concord Lakes; St. Paul, MN (Sensory Friendly)
2026-03-21 11:30 - 13:00 | MN
OOP’S TROOPS BOWLING 2026

Please join The Swenson’s for some bowling fun. This is a perfect event to bring the whole family. Do not worry if you don’t know if your child will bowl or not. Join us! Meet some other families. Have fun! In a safe, inviting, non-judgement space.

Date: SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2026
Arrival: 11:30 A.M.
Start Time: 11:45 A.M. – 12:45 p.m.

Location:
Concord Lanes365 Concord Exchange N,South St Paul, MN 55075

REGISTER HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/…/30E0E4FA4AC22ABFB6…

Cost $15.00 per person includes bowling shoes and 1 hour of bowling with 5 or 6 people per lane

You may be paired with other families for bowling. I will assign a lane to you at arrival. If you want to be paired with a specific family please send me a message by Monday 3/16/26.

Please register and pay Kate by Saturday 3/14/26
Reference bowling in notes area.
Paypal account: swensonkate@yahoo.com
Venmo Account: kate-swenson-0

Food and drink are available to be purchased separately.
If there are any questions, please let me know via Facebook messenger or email theduffy1028@gmail.com

Sensory Friendly Movie - The Super Mario Bros. Galaxy Movie - Woodbury 10 Theater
2026-04-11 14:30 - 17:00 | Woodbury 10 Theater
Coop’s Troops MN Movie Theater Event 2026
Please join us for a Coop’s Troops Sensory Friendly Movie Theater

Date: Saturday April 11, 2026
Check-in Time: 2:30 p.m.
Movie Start Time: 2:55 p.m. CST.

Location:
Woodbury 10 Movie Theater
1470 Queens Dr, Woodbury, MN 55125
https://woodburytheatre.com

Price: $7.00 per person
Movie: The Super Mario Bros. Galaxy Movie – NEW RELEASE

Mario will bounce his way to outer space in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, the sequel to 2023’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie.The follow-up is inspired by the Super Mario Galaxy games, though producers promise it “holds surprises for fans of every Mario era.”Concessions are purchased separately

No outside food or drink allowed, including water bottles

Please send payment to Kate via Paypal or Venmo by Saturday 4/4/26 so we can secure your spot.
Paypal account: swensonkate@yahoo.com
Venmo Account: kate-swenson-0

If you are not able to attend please change your registration ASAP and at least 1 day prior to event as this is a popular activity each year.

Finding Joy in the Secret World of Autism Presentation; Rochester, MN
2026-04-18 17:00 - 20:00 | MN
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 | MN
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.

2025 Care for the Caregiver Retreat (Owensboro, Kentucky)
2026-04-30 - 2026-05-02 | MN
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/
