Autism Society of Oregon
As the Salem Chapter Representative for the Autism Society of Oregon, I represent the voice of autistic adults in our local community. Through my business, NeuroDiverse Inclusive Solutions (NDIS), I offer peer support, consulting, and training that center lived experience and neurodivergent identity. I coordinate local events, maintain community visibility, and run the Autistic Professionals Support Group—a monthly space for autistic adults navigating careers, burnout, masking, and identity in the workplace. My goal is to build practical systems of support that foster self-understanding, capacity, and connection.
Crystal, my wife and the Family Support Coordinator for NDIS, brings a compassionate and deeply personal perspective to our partnership with ASO. She leads a unique peer group for wives of autistic men, creating space to talk openly about relationships, regulation, and the emotional labor that often goes unseen. With her background as a caregiver and her own experience navigating neurodiverse marriage, Crystal helps other partners feel understood, supported, and connected.
Together, we co-host two monthly events through ASO that bring the community together in fun, inclusive ways. Our sensory-friendly movie night offers a relaxed, judgment-free environment for autistic individuals and families to enjoy a film together. Our Cosplay Club provides a creative space for all ages to express themselves through costumes, roleplay, and social connection—without pressure to mask or perform. These events reflect our shared belief that inclusion should be joyful, accessible, and built on real relationships.
If you’re looking to get connected, we’d love to have you join one of our ongoing support and social groups.
The Autistic Professional Support Group meets online every other Friday from 6–7 PM and is designed for autistic adults who are employed or career-focused, with at least two years of professional experience or a mid- to senior-level role. It’s a space to share workplace challenges, give and receive feedback, and connect around identity and burnout in a professional context. Each session includes a guided topic and time for open discussion. The group is led by Dan Dickinson, an autistic adult with experience in leadership and late-diagnosed identity development.
The Empowered Relationships Support Group is for spouses and partners of autistic adults, especially those navigating neurodiverse marriages. Facilitated by Crystal Dickinson, this group meets virtually on the first Saturday and in person in Salem on the third Saturday of each month. It offers a safe, validating space to explore communication, emotional labor, and relational balance in partnerships where neurodivergence is part of the dynamic.
We also co-host two monthly community events in Salem that are open to all ages and support needs. The Sensory-Friendly Movie Night provides a relaxed, inclusive theater experience where movement, noise, and comfort items are welcomed. The Cosplay Club, held at the Salem Public Library, is a creative social group for kids, teens, and adults who enjoy costumes, characters, and connecting through shared interests—no costume or experience required.
To register or learn more, email dandickinson.aso@gmail.com or visit the ASO Region 5 support page for up-to-date meeting listings and registration links.
