Social Support Network & Resource for Developmentally Disabled
Recent events have proven the value of learning to build lifelong friendships if for nothing else to have the support and encouragement necessary to get through life’s challenges. Though the benefits of friendship have been the subject of countless studies, for people with disabilities, the ability to form lasting friendships can be the deciding factor in whether or not they are able to live a life of independence or dependence. As the pandemic kept many people from socializing with others, and we were all told to stay inside and avoid contact with those we knew, the All Friends Network served as a beacon of hope for those who wanted to reconnect with old friends and make new ones.
Opportunities to Meet New Friends
All Friends Network has expanded steadily and shows no signs of slowing down. The target demographic includes people of all ages, with an emphasis on helping young adults with autism, cerebral palsy, and other developmental disabilities who are looking to make friends for the long haul. A free app called Live-LINK can be used to help connect all members and provide interactive opportunities and fun, despite the fact that this may seem like a daunting plan to some. All members of any age group are welcome in this supportive community. The primary goal is to facilitate opportunities for members to expand their social networks, develop their interpersonal abilities, and improve their chances of leading satisfying and successful lives on their own. Because of this, we think of All Friends Network as a crucial first step toward a permanent answer. The AFN Live-LINK app is a free social network for people with developmental disabilities. We are already receiving support from companies such as Autism Speaks and Dairy Queen, and as the network expands, more opportunities will present themselves.
Social Support Network: Members Only
Monthly social events are planned for the time being by All Friends Network, since things began to open up again in 2021. Additional gatherings will be added when we have a large enough membership base to host them. Each in-person get-together or event will have a nominal fee to help cover expenses. All Friends Network is a Florida nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) and will not receive any donations. To make it more feasible for people of all income levels to attend events if they so choose, our team is currently negotiating bulk discounts with relevant vendors. If you are financially unable to attend the events, we will help cover your expenses. We’re planning a variety of activities, such as a pizza party, mini-golfing trip, movie night, and even a trip to the local aquarium or museum. Make sure to get in touch with our staff if you’re curious about our member social events.
AFN: A Social Network for Developmental Disabilities
In addition to facilitating the development of lasting friendships, we also offer members access to a wealth of informational resources that can be accessed from the comfort of their own homes. There will be resources like training videos, mini-seminars, and individual coaching sessions to help people acquire or hone the independence-enhancing life skills they need to live their best lives. In addition, we’ll be collaborating with a staffing firm to help our members who are actively seeking new employment find suitable positions.
Our goal as a social network for people with developmental disabilities like cerebral palsy and autism is to help our members land employment by providing them with resources for creating a standout resume and practicing interview skills. Call us at 941-587-7172 if you’re interested in joining the All Friends Network or learning more about the AFN Live-LINK app and our other programs that aim to foster lifelong friendships and the development of essential skills. Use the online form to get in touch with us whenever it’s convenient for you to be contacted.