Fantastic Friends of WNY

10/30/2026

Navigating life as a parent or caregiver of a child with special needs is deeply meaningful, but let’s be honest, it can also be incredibly challenging, overwhelming, and isolating. Between managing daily care, advocating for your child, and untangling complicated systems, you shouldn't have to carry it all by yourself.

Join us at Fantastic Friends of WNY for a free, supportive evening designed specifically for parents and caregivers. We will focus on...

• Understanding NYS OPWDD Services: Learn practical information about the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), what services and supports your child may be entitled to, and how to access them.
• Peer Connection: Meet and share experiences with other special needs parents who truly understand the daily highs, lows, and unique path you’re walking.
• A Community of Support: Walk away with valuable knowledge, new resources, and a renewed sense of community.

Thursday, November 19th 6- 7:30 pm

10/29/2026

New life and social skills class! For individuals ages 16+. This class provides a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment where individuals can stay active, build meaningful relationships, and strengthen
This 3 hour instructor led class will be a fun filled, social and educational class.
Participants will learn life skills, critical thinking, socialization and teamwork throughout the day.
*Disclaimer: this is not a day or comm hab program.

Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: 10am- 1pm

10/29/2026

Cooking up some fun in the kitchen!

10/29/2026

November program registrations are live and we want to make sure everyone is aware of some time changes for a couple programs. We have been wanting to do more fun and exciting projects in art & science and in order to do that, we are extending the classes to an hour and a half long. You can find the link to all of our program signups on our website at the bottom of the programs page- including our new adult day program and children's acro/tumbling.

10/28/2026

This year's Halloween dance party was a hit! Our friends had a blast and we loved being able to create this event for them to enjoy. A big thank you to our volunteers who came out to help.

10/28/2026

We are excited to announce a brand new program... Discover the Joy of Acro — Built for Every Body!
Looking for an active, empowering class where your child can build confidence, strength, and spatial awareness at their own pace? Our Acro Class for ages 6–12 is open to students of all abilities! 🤸‍♂️🌈
We design our classes with a structured, sensory-friendly blueprint to help every child thrive:
💙 Sensory Regulation: Deep pressure (proprioceptive input) and movement (vestibular input) naturally support self-regulation, focus, and motor planning—making this class especially beneficial for autistic youth!
💙 Predictable Routines: Clear, consistent structures so students always know what to expect and feel comfortable.
💙 Functional Strength & Spatial Awareness: Fun skills adaptively tailored to individual movement goals.
Whether your child is taking their first steps into gymnastics or looking for a safe, inclusive space to move, our doors are open!
Space is VERY limited, save your child's spot now!...
https://givebutter.com/november-acro-tumbling

Mondays 6:30-7:30

10/24/2026

Gift card raffle winner

10/22/2026

Graduating from the school system marks a major life transition, but for young adults with special needs, it often means losing the structured daily support, socialization, and routines they relied on for years. That is why we are so thrilled to announce our new day program that is launching in November. Day programs bridge this critical gap by providing a safe, enriching environment where individuals can continue to learn, grow, socialize and thrive. Participants can register now!

Monday's, Wednesday's, Friday's: 10am- 1pm

10/17/2026

A special weekday session of baking. Our friends crafted some delicious and beautiful Halloween theme cupcakes.

10/15/2026

Our special weekday Halloween theme baking session is tomorrow and there is still time to register. https://givebutter.com/Halloween_Baking