The Autism Aspergers Friendship Society (AAFS) is bringing the second annual Cochrane World Autism Awareness Day to town, offering a special sensory-friendly screening of the new A Minecraft Movie.
The free event, made possible with support from local businesses, is open to families and individuals who are neurodivergent or want to support autism awareness and acceptance.
AAFS, a non-profit organization founded two decades ago by parents seeking more recreational opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum, expanded to Cochrane just over two years ago. Since then, the group has seen overwhelming support, with nearly half of AAFS’s 1,000 members residing in Cochrane.
“We're putting on this event to raise awareness for autism acceptance,” said Zahra Guy, board chair of AAFS. “By offering a sensory-friendly screening, we hope to create a welcoming environment for individuals who may struggle with loud noises or bright lights.”
The sensory-friendly screening will feature dimmed lighting and reduced volume, ensuring a more comfortable experience for attendees with sensory sensitivities.
For many families, attending traditional events can be challenging due to sensory sensitivities. “It’s tough when you have a child who is sensory-sensitive and you go to an event only to find out it’s overwhelming for them,” said Guy. “By providing sensory-friendly options and letting families know what to expect in advance, we help ensure a positive experience.”
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Beyond this event, AAFS offers year-round programming primarily based in Calgary, with regular activities in Cochrane and Airdrie as well. Membership costs $25 per year, giving families access to a full calendar of events tailored to individuals on the spectrum.
With Cochrane's growing population of families with young children, the demand for autism-friendly events has surged.
“Finding a group that understands your journey is invaluable,” Guy explained. “As a parent, it can be isolating when traditional activities don’t fit your child’s needs. A community like this makes all the difference.”
AAFS also hosts monthly meetups at the Cochrane Public Library for parents and caregivers of neurodivergent children and adults, offering support and networking opportunities.
Tickets for the Minecraft movie screening are available via Eventbrite and can also be found on AAFS’s social media pages.
