Disability Justice, Equity, and Belonging Initiatives
Our Approach
Together We Bloom is committed to dismantling the systems and structures that exclude and marginalize individuals with disabilities and their intersecting identities, especially young children, in our communities. We believe that inclusion is just the start and strive for true equity and belonging for all children. We learn from and listen to those with lived experiences of disability and neurodivergence.
Recent and Upcoming Events
Community Workshop
How to Talk to Kids about Disability and Neurodiversity
Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025
Time: 8:00-9:15 pm
Location: Via Zoom
*This workshop will be recorded
Join us for a community-wide workshop for parents, educators, and community members committed to raising inclusive kids who understand disability and neurodiversity as natural, important parts of human diversity.
PRIDE
Neuroqueer Pride & Disability Access at Pride
Date: Sunday, June 8, 2025
Time: 12:00-6:00 pm
Location: Memorial Park Maplewood
Together We Bloom, in partnership with North Jersey Pride and Groove Theory Fitness, is creating a neurodiversity-affirming, sensory-accessible space at the North Jersey Pride festival in Maplewood to celebrate the intersection of the queer and neurodivergent communities.
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Tree Lighting
Accessibility at Maplewood Holiday Tree Lighting
Date: Saturday Dec. 13, 2025
Time: 4:00-6:00 pm
Location: Springfield Ave Gazebo, Mapleood
TWB has partnered with Maplewood Dept. of Community Services to support accessibility of the Holiday Tree Lighting Event:
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event social story and info guide
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sensory-friendly quiet space
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ear defenders to borrow
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accessibility webpage
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and other accommodations.
Our Ongoing Offerings
Workshops & Assemblies
We provide engaging, dynamic workshops, professional development, and assemblies for teachers, students, caregivers, and organizations.
Past topics include:
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Shifting Our Lens: Neurodiversity and Disability Inclusivity in the Classroom
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Our Neurodiverse Community: An Assembly for Elementary Students
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AAC Story Time: An Assembly for Kids
We center insights and voices of disabled and neurodivergent people with lived experience. All workshops, trainings and assemblies are co-presented by a professional and a disabled or neurodivergent self-advocate.
To inquire about bringing an event to your community, email us
Community Groups
We support and facilitate peer groups for neurodivergent adults, parents, caregivers, and professionals committed to mutual support, learning, action and advocacy.
Learn more about TWB's groups:
SOMA Neurodiversity Community Network- A group created by and for neurodivergent people to support, empower, and educate our intersectional, neurodiverse community.
Professionals CAASL Group- A network of professionals committed to growing in their neurodiversity-affirming practices through Community, Action, Accountability, Support, and Learning.
Our Community Partners
Consultations & Technical Assistance
It can be overwhelming to know the best ways to make your school or community more inclusive and neurodiversity-affirming. The good news is we can help! We partner with organizations, schools, and businesses to provide comprehensive, individualized supports to make your space or event more accessible and inclusive. We work along side you towards your goals of justice, equity, and belonging for individuals with disabilities.
To inquire about consultations and accessibility support to your community, email us to learn more