NARG / AOG Community Guidelines
Welcome to the Neurodivergent Advocacy and Resource Group and Autism On the Go (NARG / AOG)! Our mission is to create a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for neurodivergent individuals and allies to connect, learn, and advocate. Our spaces are designed to support adults age 18 and over and those participating with the support of a parent or guardian only.
To ensure a positive and respectful environment, we ask all members to adhere to the following Community Guidelines when participating in meetings and activities.
1. Respect for All
- Treat all members with kindness, dignity, and respect.
- Acknowledge and honor different communication styles, processing speeds, and ways of expressing oneself.
- Avoid personal attacks, insults, or demeaning language.
- Listen actively and engage with others in good faith.
2. Inclusion & Diversity
- We welcome individuals of all neurotypes, backgrounds, and lived experiences.
- Discrimination, hate speech, or exclusion based on disability, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or other personal characteristics will not be tolerated.
- Make space for all voices—no one should dominate the conversation, and everyone should have an opportunity to participate.
3. Neurosensitivity & Accommodations
- Everyone processes information differently. Be patient and allow extra time for responses.
- Use multiple communication options when possible (e.g., text, voice, visuals) to make discussions accessible.
- If you need accommodations, you are encouraged to ask for them. If you are unsure what you need, leadership can help identify options.
- Respect sensory needs—no forced participation in activities that may be distressing.
- Recognize that stimming, scripting, and other natural expressions of neurodivergence are valid and welcome.
4. Confidentiality & Safety
- What is shared in meetings stays in meetings unless explicit consent is given to share information.
- Respect people's privacy—avoid discussing personal matters outside of designated safe spaces.
- If you feel unsafe or witness harmful behavior, please reach out to a facilitator or trusted leader.
5. Engagement & Participation
- Participation is always encouraged but never required—observe, listen, or contribute as you feel comfortable.
- If feedback or disagreement arises, engage with care and curiosity rather than hostility.
- If you need a break, step away at any time—your well-being comes first.
6. Growth & Learning Mindset
- Mistakes happen—what matters is how we learn from them. If someone points out a harmful comment or behavior, listen with an open mind and be willing to adjust.
- Encourage constructive conversations and support personal growth within the community.
- Assume good intent while also recognizing that impact matters.
7. Zero Tolerance for Harmful Behavior
- Harassment, bullying, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
- If someone repeatedly disregards these guidelines, they may be asked to step back from participation.
- Leadership reserves the right to intervene in cases of harm to protect the safety of all members.
By joining NARG / AOG meetings, you agree to uphold these guidelines.
Our goal is to create a space where neurodivergent individuals can thrive, feel valued, and have their voices heard. Thank you for being part of our community and for helping us build a supportive and inclusive space for all.
