Changing Lives, One Friendship at a Time.
We are dedicated to providing a supportive community for families with special needs. We are here to build a stronger, more connected community—one friendship at a time.
Our Next Event
Community
21
Dec
Christmas Party
Come join us for a fun and festive Holiday Party! We'll have special needs vendors, food, games, and activity stations for everyone to enjoy. Bonus: Santa will be making a special appearance — don't forget your camera! This is a FREE event for our amazing community. We can't wait to celebrate the season with you!
- Time: 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM
- Location: Romeoville Aquatic Center
- Price: Free!
Key Areas of Focus
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Community
We host sensory-friendly events designed to be welcoming, safe, and judgment-free spaces for individuals with special needs and their families. Our goal is to fight isolation by creating opportunities for meaningful social connection. From swimming events to inclusive holiday parties, these gatherings allow parents to relax and connect with peers, and for children to build genuine friendships in an environment where they feel completely understood.
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Support
Our organization is built on a foundation of empathy and shared experience. We offer more than just events; we provide essential resources, workshops, and peer support networks for parents and caregivers. We connect families with volunteers who offer practical advice and emotional encouragement, ensuring no one has to navigate the complex journey of special needs alone. Our support empowers families to thrive, not just cope.
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Experiences
We are passionate about creating joyful and accessible new experiences. We partner with local venues, like aquatic centers and entertainment facilities, to adapt their spaces, offering fully inclusive access to activities that might otherwise be overwhelming. These unique, low-sensory opportunities help build confidence, foster independence, and create treasured family memories that last long after the event is over.
Driven by Purpose, Measured by Impact
Meet Our Board:
Liz
CEO
Educating, helping, and loving people—especially children—has always been a deep passion of mine. I worked as a school administrator for 14 years and have always felt called to support those with special needs. But it wasn't until I had my daughter that I truly understood what it meant to pour your entire heart and soul into the special-needs community. She is the reason behind every fiber of this group—her and the amazing children within her world. Unfortunately, my daughter has also experienced what it feels like to be lonely, judged, and to feel “not enough.” My heart shattered the day she came home and told me she had no friends. I never want her—or any child—to feel that kind of pain again. When I realized she wasn't alone in those feelings, I knew something had to change. I searched high and low for a place where she could truly belong—a space that celebrated her for exactly who she is. When I couldn't find that perfect fit, I decided to create it. That's how this community was born: a place where no one ever feels unwanted, unloved, or ashamed of who they are. Because EVERYBUDDY deserves love. Because EVERYBUDDY needs a friend.
Lisa
Treasurer
Becoming a member of this team is an exciting opportunity. I look forward to embarking on this journey together.
Jennifer
Secretary
My name is Jennifer. I have been working with children since 2011 and have been volunteering with individuals with special needs since 2000. I love volunteering, and I have received awards from the mayor of New Lenox and President Barack Obama. I received the Bronze Presidential Volunteer Award for the number of hours I have volunteered throughout the years.
Skylar
Social Media Coordinator
I'm thrilled to be part of the SensoryMeetup team! It's amazing to help create a fun, welcoming space where everyone can connect, feel included, and just be themselves.
Nathan
Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Hi! My name is Nathan, I'm 19-years-old. I've been coding for over 4 years and am excited about my technical contribution to this organization. This organization is very special and dear to me as I have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I've seen the amazing impact this organization has had on our community, and I'm so proud to now be a part of the organization that has helped my family and I so much.
Our Advisory Team
Cheryl Parson
Katherine Aviles
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