WHO WE ARE
Blue Heron Collective is dedicated to empowering the neurodiverse community through a range of programs focused on consulting, education, and employment opportunities. Our consulting services help organizations develop inclusive practices, ensuring environments where neurodiverse individuals can thrive. Through educational initiatives, Blue Heron Collective raises awareness and offers training to shift public perceptions of neurodiversity, promoting acceptance and understanding. Their employment programs provide job training, support, and placement, emphasizing the unique strengths of neurodiverse individuals and advocating for a society where neurodiversity is seen as an asset, not a barrier.
CONSULTING AND COACHING
With our consulting and coaching service, we specialize in providing professional advice and support tailored to individuals and families. Our focus is on understanding and accommodating neurodiverse individuals, ensuring their unique needs are met. Through personalized coaching, we empower families and individuals with the tools and strategies necessary to thrive in their everyday lives. Together, we create an environment that fosters growth, understanding, and resilience.
EDUCATION PATHWAYS
Participant's will be able to choose one or more pathways including but not limited to: Job Readiness, Independent Living Skills, Community Navigation, and Special Interest courses to help support their growth and goals. An educational pathway is a series of classes over a period of time developed to support the needs of our participants.
THE COLLECTIVE
Through Blue Heron Collective “Micro Hubs”, and participating partners, participants have the opportunity to pursue employment with us or our partners.
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"Micro Hub” Examples: Makerspace, Soda Shop/Cafe, Apothecary/Merchandise Storefront, Community Events and Classes, Hospitality/Recreation, Seasonal pop ups, Farmers Market/Flea Markets, Estate Sales
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Partnership Examples: Local sports teams, Local small businesses, Local and regional colleges and universities, Local and regional parks and recreation programs, Local and regional museums and attractions
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Consulting/Coaching
Coaching through Blue Heron Collective is available for individuals and families.
Individual Coaching can be scheduled for half hour or hour increments. We will meet in our sensory friendly office space and provide engaging and thought provoking experiences to help individuals grow and meet their personal goals.
*We are not mental health counselors.
We will consult with businesses who are or would like to hire neurodivergent individuals. This work will look like analyzing the work environment, mediating conversations between employer and employee, identifying and developing modifications and accommodations and conducting assessments and check-ins.
We will also consult with community groups such as churches, scouts, clubs, sports teams etc. to enhance inclusion, understanding and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals.
We will consult with families on community resources, advocacy, the special education process and families rights. We can support families in finding the best resources for them to flourish.
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Education Pathway
Individuals can choose to participate in an Educational Pathway in one of three areas; Independent Living, Socialization and/or Job Readiness. An educational Pathway would include three classes that would better prepare the individual to meet their personal goals.
Independent Living Pathway classes include: Adulting 101, Cognitive Strength Building and Financial Well Being
Socialization Pathway classes include: Hitting the Trail, Whole Person Wellness and Partner Connection
Job Readiness Pathway include: Job Prep, Financial Well Being and Civics and Community
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Employment
Through classes, skill building and individualized support, it is our mission to create a pathway to employment for our clients. Blue Heron Collective has its own built-in worksite opportunities such as retail space, marketing and technology management and even as class and program assistance. We plan to offer even more opportunities in the future. We will partner with local area businesses and encourage and support the hiring of neurodiverse individuals. We support inclusion in all realms of life, including employment. We are changing the narrative for neurodiverse individuals, recognizing their value in different workplace settings and preparing them for success.
ABOUT US
At Blue Heron Collective, we bring together over 40 years of combined experience in education, program development, STEM research, and specialized programming. Our dedicated team has held leadership roles across various sectors, enabling us to offer insightful strategies and solutions. We possess personal experience and firsthand knowledge of the unique challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals. Committed to fostering inclusive environments, we aim to empower every individual to thrive.