HARRISONBURG, Va. (ROCKTOWN NOW) – This weekend, young adults in the area who identify as ‘neurodiverse’ will get the chance to meet peers ‘of like mind.’

Adagio House and Broad Porch are hosting a ‘Neurodivergent Speed Date Night’ for young people on Saturday, July 13, at 6 p.m. This event is for individuals aged 18-29, who identify as ‘neurodivergent’ or ‘neurodiverse,’ regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

‘Neurodivergent’ or ‘neurodiverse’ refers to people whose minds don’t function in the same way as someone who is ‘neurotypical.’ This can include someone on the autism spectrum, or with ADHD, anxiety or other neurotypes.

The event aims to bring together those seeking a romantic connection or friendship. Sharon Skates, from Broadway, was inspired by the Netflix series ‘Love on the Spectrum’ and asked friends on Facebook to help plan a similar local event.

“I found that high school provided many opportunities for my son to make connections, but since graduation, he’s had a harder time meeting people,” Skates said. “I searched online for local social events geared towards ‘neurodivergent’ folks and wasn’t having much luck finding anything. I saw this as an opportunity to create a safe space for such an event.”

Lara Mack, Adagio House’s Community Engagement Coordinator, saw Sharon’s post and decided to contact her to collaborate.

“We hope that when people see this event that if they fit the age range and self-identify as being neurodiverse, they consider coming and RSVP to attend,” Mack said. “At the very least, we want this to be an event that makes everyone feel comfortable and celebrated and builds community.”

The speed dating event requires an RSVP, which can be submitted through this form, which includes accessibility information regarding wheelchairs, sensory impacts of the space and more. The form also allows attendees to share additional needs or questions.

Adagio House is a non-profit that provides clinical and community support for people of all ages with disabilities and neurodiversity and their caregivers, including mental health counseling, occupational therapy, respite, caregiver support circle and daily living activities.

The event will be at Broad Porch’s new location in downtown Harrisonburg: 47 Court Square, Harrisonburg, VA 22801.