The Self Determination Group

06/05/2026

Looking for a fun online space to meet other adults with IDD in Texas?

Join the Autism Society of Texas FREE virtual recreation group for people with IDD! We meet once a month on the second Tuesday to hang out, make friends, play games like trivia, and build community together.

Whether you want to socialize, meet new people, or just have a place where you belong, we’d love to have you join us.

Interested or know someone who might enjoy it? Check out our Meetup page for upcoming events:
https://www.meetup.com/texas-autistic-adults-social-group/

The group is facilitated by Alannah Puente, a member of The Self Determination Group and is always 100% free.

Questions? Email Alannah at [[email protected]]

This group is facilitated by the Autism Society of Texas (AST). It is for Autistic adults (18 years old and up) living in Texas who want to be more socially active.Self-identification of Autism is welcome, as are individuals experiencing social challenges due to a related disability (ADHD, SCD, NVLD

06/04/2026

Our next in-person meeting is on June 20 from 2:30–4:30 PM at Finn's Place

We’ll have food, good conversation, and a chance to connect with others in a welcoming space.

Thinking about joining but not sure yet? That’s okay! Come check it out, meet people, and see what our group is like. New people are always welcome, and we’d love to meet you!

06/03/2026

Just sharing some photos of Self Determination Group members volunteering at the A Look Ahead conference last month! We had a good time!

Beverly Black Alannah Puente Carissa Paschall Marie Cooney

06/02/2026

Self Advocacy is better with Friends!

Join us and find community in the DFW area.

If you're interested in becoming an SDG member, scan the QR code, visit our website, or send us an email to get involved.

06/01/2026

The R-word didn't stop being used because something cooler replaced it. It faded because people fought to end it. And now it's creeping back, dressed up as a punchline, an insult, or a throwaway comment, including in shows like Euphoria and stand-up specials. It was never any of those things. And people with disabilities have dealt with this word their entire lives.

In our blog, people share exactly what this word has meant in their lives and the moments they heard it, who said it, and what it cost them. Their stories are honest, painful, and important. And they are exactly why this conversation still matters.

Read their words. Sit with their experiences. And then make two choices: never use it again and say something when others do.

Learn more about how the R-word impacts the lives of people with disabilities: https://bit.ly/42Zth3T

06/01/2026

Tonight! Join us for Bingo! We always have a good time. :)

Join us for our weekly game of Bingo!
Every Monday night starting at 6pm, over Zoom.

If you're already a member and would like to join, reach out to Marie Cooney, who organizes our weekly game. :)

If you're thinking about joining the SDG and participating in our community events, sign up here to become a member:
https://thearcofdfw.app.neoncrm.com/forms/14

05/31/2026

Join us for our weekly game of Bingo!
Every Monday night starting at 6pm, over Zoom.

If you're already a member and would like to join, reach out to Marie Cooney, who organizes our weekly game. :)

If you're thinking about joining the SDG and participating in our community events, sign up here to become a member:
https://thearcofdfw.app.neoncrm.com/forms/14

05/28/2026

The May 2026 SDG Newsletter, put together by Alannah Puente and featuring important updates!

Some Highlights:
-The SDG attended the most recent A Look Ahead conference!
-Members of the SDG will be attending the 2026 Texas Advocates conference.
-We will be holding meetings in person at Finn's Place in Fort Worth starting in June!

05/27/2026

Jessica (left) has been a Self Determination Group member for years. She accomplished one of her goals recently- to order her own food at a restaurant for the first time! 🎉 She also loves to play baseball, make friends, and spend time with her dog. 🌼💚



Image description:
Photo of two blonde girls laughing and smiling together at Bingo night. One girl is wearing green glasses.

05/26/2026

Could you leave your home in minutes and have everything your child needs?

This webinar will help you build a plan that works for YOUR family.

“FHF webinars give real-life tools I can actually use, not just information, but guidance I trust.”

🔗 Save your spot: https://tinyurl.com/052826EmergencyPrepPart1