About “Speed Dating Style”

What is “Speed Dating-Style”?

What is “Speed Dating-Style”?

It is a new way for the neurodiverse young adult community to …

  • Meet Like-Minded People
  • Find others for friendship or possible dating
  • Make New Connections

Who are these events for?

  • The NeuroDiverse Community, ages 18-35 yrs
  • Those who often feel out of place at traditional disability mixers, yet unsupported at neurotypical events
  • Many of our participants identify as Autistic, Au/DhD, ADHD, social Anxious, or a similar neurospicy profile
  • Feel unsure of what to say when meeting someone new

How will a “Speed Dating-Style” event help me meet people?

  • Structured; specifically designed to foster conversation & connection
  • Supportive; no pressure to approach someone on your own.
  • Our Connection Support Team is ready to assist with interactions as needed
  • Guided one-to-one conversations so you’re never left wondering what to say
  • Conversation Cards for a fun way to break the ice
  • Separate “Chill Room” if you need a break
  • Low-Sensory; no loud music
  • Any person who is emotionally supportive for you is encouraged and welcome to attend (friends, family, etc.)

Sounds great, but I am so nervous!

Nervous? Totally normal, and you aren’t the only one!

  • Every single participant has said that they were nervous in the beginning
  • Many say they almost didn’t come, but afterward are so glad they did!
  • We do guided, fun ice breakers that will leave you feeling much more comfortable and ready to participate
  • Our Connection Support Team is on hand to help you feel at ease

Who will I meet?

Everyone!

  • “Speed Dating-Style” means short, timed, 1:1 conversations with everyone at the event, both men and women
  • You could meet someone for friendship, or possibly something more; both are celebrated. Remember, a good relationship starts with a friendship

I don’t know what to say, how can you help?

That’s okay!

  • Our friendly Connection Support Team is available to help support and guide conversations whenever you need
  • Conversation Cards at each table to make it easy to get a conversation started

What exactly is the format of the event?

The beginning – Helpful Tips & Ice Breakers to set you up for success:

  • We’ll kick things off with a short, engaging presentation covering expectations, tips, boundaries, and more – so you feel confident going into each one-to-one conversation
  • Next, we’ll do some fun ice breakers that will help everyone feel more at ease

Structured, timed, one-to-one conversations:

  • After the presentation, pairs of two will sit at each table where you will have a have short, timed 1:1 conversation
  • You will also receive a personalized Connection Card with all the partipants’ names to help you keep track of who you speak to; just check “yes” or “no” if you want to connect with that person later
  • After about 5-7 minutes, we’ll let you know it’s time to switch, and you’ll meet a new person, and so on

Wrap-up

  • After the structured part, you’ll have free time to mingle, but you don’t have to stay
  • You can leave at any time

What if I need a break?

Need a break? We’ve got you covered!

  • Our dedicated “Chill Room” is a seperate, quiet, low-stimulation space where you can step away at any time, rest, and recharge at your own pace – no pressure, no expectations
  • Also, there is a built in break half-way through the event

How do I know who I matched with?

  • Within a day or two you’ll receive a Shared Email Introduction with your mutual match(es). You two take it from there

What if I change my mind and don’t want to connect?

Respecting boundaries and changing your mind

  • It’s okay to change your mind; just because you exchanged contact information doesn’t mean you’re committing to a friendship or relationship
  • Be kind and honest; if you decide you don’t want to continue connecting, we encourage you to send a brief message rather than “ghosting” that other person. For example, here is a kind way to let someone know you changed your mind that can provide closure while showing kindness and respect:
    • I’ve decided I don’t want to continue the connection at this time, but I wish you all the best.”
  • Healthy boundaries go both ways; it’s okay to say “no,” and it’s equally important to respect someone else’s decision if they choose not to continue the connection

I want to continue the Connection, how can I do that?

  • In addition to our Speed Dating-Style event, we also host Friendship & Connection Events
  • These structured, supported events give you the opportunity to reconnect with people you’ve met before and continue building meaningful relationships or meet new participants.
  • Our next Friendship Connection event is a Ladies’ Night Out in July (details to come)
  • Watch our website for future events

When is the next Speed Dating Event?