简体中文
EnglishWhat is KindTree-Autism Rocks?
Updated
KindTree-Autism Rocks is a nonprofit organization based in Eugene, Oregon, dedicated to celebrating and supporting individuals with autism through the arts, education, recreation, and community involvement. It serves autistic people and their families in Eugene and surrounding areas, offering support groups, social events, a friends and family camp, and connections to community resources. If you are autistic, a family member, or an ally looking for local community and activities in the Eugene area, this organization is built around you.
Who KindTree Serves and What It Stands For
The organization was founded on the belief that through acceptance, respect, and the power of self-advocacy, everyone—regardless of disability, race, or minority status, with or without autism—can achieve self-realization. Its stated mission centers on three ideas: celebrating autism, changing perceptions, and creating community.
That philosophy shapes who is welcome. The site states plainly that everyone is welcome, and programming is designed for autistic adults, families, and community members rather than a single narrow group.
Main Programs and Activities
KindTree organizes its work into four broad areas:
| Program | What it offers |
|---|---|
| Support Groups | Groups for autistic adults to build social skills, share coping strategies, and have fun |
| Events | Fundraisers, socials, parties, and expert presentations on a rolling calendar |
| Friends & Family Camp | A camp experience with past-camp highlights; registration and volunteer opportunities |
| Community Resources | Local, state, and national resources for autism assessments, jobs, health, and social services |
Support Groups
The peer support groups are aimed at autistic adults. The stated goals are practical: building social skills, sharing coping strategies, and enjoying time together. A Eugene Peer Support Group meets at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 1300 Pearl St, Eugene, OR 97401.
Events
Events range from casual socials to larger parties and fundraisers. Examples from the calendar include:
- Friday Social via Zoom — recurring, held online
- Eugene Peer Support Group — recurring, in person in Eugene
- Disco Halloween Extravaganza — a seasonal party at Whirled Pies, 199 W 8th Ave #1, Eugene, OR 97401
- Social Skills Class — recurring, with a rotating schedule
- Autism Society of Oregon Events and Allies LLC Event List — partner listings
Because dates and formats vary, check the Upcoming Events page for current details before planning to attend.
Friends & Family Camp
Camp is one of the organization's signature programs. The site notes that camp registration for 2025 begins in April, and that volunteers are always needed. It also lists a future camp registration date of April 1st, 2027. If you are considering camp, plan around the April registration window and look into volunteer roles if you want to participate without registering as a camper.
Getting Involved
There are several ways to connect beyond attending events:
- Follow on Facebook or Instagram for updates
- Subscribe to updates through the site
- Fund a scholarship to help someone else attend
- Volunteer, particularly for camp
The organization also publishes an eFlash email newsletter and maintains a Spanish-language entry point on its site.
Practical Notes
- Location: Eugene, OR, and surrounding areas. Some events are in person; at least one social is held via Zoom.
- Cost: The available site information does not list prices for events, camp, or membership. Do not assume any program is free—check the specific event or registration page.
- Registration: Some events show an RSVP option; camp has a defined registration window beginning in April.
- Best first step: Browse the Upcoming Events page and the Support Groups page to find something that matches your schedule and comfort level, then RSVP or reach out through the contact options on the site.