As a social worker in the Developmental Behavioral Pediatric Clinic (DBP), I host support groups for parents. In April, an attending parent said, “I only attended this group in the hopes of finding another family nearby who also has a child with autism.” I nodded and felt frustrated that I could not offer a solution I have heard this request repeatedly for years. I always thought a matching system would be easy and crucial for families and autistic adults to connect. As I jumped off the call, I thought, “You know what? I’ll do it.” ....

Are you looking for a peer for your child to play with, but having trouble meeting one? Wouldn’t it be great to be connected with like minded individuals near you? We are excited to highlight a very special company called Quirky Buds on our OOTKS Podcast.

Recently, one of our dedicated sign language interpreters, Becky Turner, told me about her daughter who had recently started a new organization. Caroline Turner is the founder of Quirky Buds, a new social networking system designed to connect individuals of different abilities with people who share common interests and hobbies. Quirky Buds was developed after Caroline received repeated requests for ways to connect from clients, advocates, and community members. 

Cole in the Community is back and better than ever with another exciting addition to our Provider Connections series. Our latest features Caroline Turner, founder of Quirky Buds, a new private social networking system designed to connect individuals of different abilities with people who share common interests and hobbies. Open to people of all ages and abilities, Quirky Buds is a fun new way to build community in a safe and controlled environment.