Learning sparks understanding,
Understanding builds relationships,
relationships create community.
About Us
Engaging Minds
of Many Kinds Charlotte
is a nonprofit organization based in Charlotte, North Carolina
founded and run by humans with diverse minds and a desire to see our city appreciate the ways neurodiversity enhances our community.
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Our Mission
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Our mission is to invite, to educate, and to create community where diversity of minds are not just included, but become the norm.
Nothing About Us
Without Us
-Engaging Minds of Many Kinds- Created & Facilitated by Neurodiverse Voices
Our Initiatives
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We encourage and educate public spaces in Charlotte
to recognize how diverse minds add to every group and space.
Workshops and Speaking
Invite EMMK to speak to your group or business
on the basics neurodiversity,
understanding and integrating a neuro-diagnosis,
and the specifics of creating a neuro-friendly space.
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From one hour talks to day-long, hands-on workshops,​
engagements are available to community groups like
churches, PTAs, businesses, and area attractions.
Engaging Events
We help neurodiverse humans find community
in Charlotte in places where they will be
appreciated, celebrated, and most importantly
know that they belong.
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If you would like to host a gathering
or put on a "Neuro-friendly" event,
either one-time or regularly, EMMK can help.
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Consulting
For groups like congregations, summer camps, and restaurants or
for individuals when someone in your life has a diagnosis
like an employee or grandchild,
EMMK can help you understand how to make your
daily operations and interactions
more neuro-friendly,
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We assume good intentions.
You can ask the uncomfortable questions.
Resources
Coming Soon...
Book Series on Universal Design
available on Amazon
with suggestions and best practices.
Engaging Neurodiversity in
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Houses of Worship
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Restaurants & Theatres
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Festivals and Community Events
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Parties & Holidays
Questions & Answers
What is neurodiversity?
“Neurodivergent” or “neurodiverse” are nonmedical terms used to describe people whose brains work in a way other than what is expected by society. There is no “right” kind of brain, but when society isn’t built for the way you experience and process information it can make many aspects of life difficult. Learning and understanding how to be mindful and accommodate all types of brains goes a long way.
What’s included in neurodiversity?
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Neurodiversity includes but IS NOT LIMITED TO the following diagnoses: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, Dyspraxia, Tourette's Syndrome, and sensory processing disorders. They are brain differences that are part of a person.
Why am I seeing this “trend”?
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Simply put, we’ve always been here. Characteristics that may have been dismissed in the past are now being acknowledged for what they really are, brain differences. Research has progressed, definitions have evolved, and diagnostics criteria have improved. The increase in formal diagnoses make it possible for more neurodivergent humans to find the support and community they need to thrive.
What’s the difference between neurodivergence & mental health disorders?
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Neurodivergence is the way a person is hard-wired. These diagnoses are descriptions of a person’s brain function that is different from what is expected.
There are many different types of neurodivergence - some that may be invisible to you.
Mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression, can be treated with a goal to cure, diminish, and eliminate the difference.
While distinct and different, they are often present in the same person. Building a community that is supportive of its neurodiverse members will often support those with mental health disorders as well.
What words do I use?
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Person-first vs. identity-first language is
“A person with dyslexia” vs. “A dyslexic person”.
Person-first language leads with the individual ahead of their diagnosis, while identity-first acknowledges that a person’s neurodivergence is simply a part of who they are, like a blonde person. There is no right answer here, but some individuals have preferences. If you are unsure, it’s best to ask a neurodivergent person in your life what they prefer.
“I don’t currently know or serve any neurodivergent people.”
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Odds are that you do. 1 in 6 people are diagnosed with ADHD and 1 in 36 are on the Autism spectrum. Neurodivergent people often do their best to fit in - also known as “masking”. These behaviors take a toll on their energy and self-confidence. It is our hope that with education, inclusion and respect, neurodivergent people can feel comfortable to show up as themselves in all groups and spaces.
The awkward questions are often the most important.
Respect begins with understanding.
We invite you to bring your uncomfortable questions.
We are not responsible for where we begin, only for the effort we make to grow.
Workshops & Speakers
available for your group
led by professionals in Cognitive Science and Psychology
who are also neurodivergent
Neurodiversity 101
A full day, hands-on workshop for anyone who wants to learn and develop empathy.
Answers to the Big Questions
All the things you want to know but are afraid to ask, tailored for your group.
Understanding and Integrating
an Adult Neuro-Diagnosis
For the newly diagnosed and the people in their lives. A new label for your life's experiences so far can rock your world.
Creating a Neuro-Friendly Community -Accommodations are Not Enough
Concrete advice for leaders and groups who want to "get it right" but don't know where to begin.
Thriving with Adult ADHD
For the round-peg thinkers in a square-hole world and the people in their lives. It's hard.
Not everyone gets it, be around people who do.
The Modern Epidemic of Overwhelm
"I just can't...I'm overwhelmed"
What's happening, prevention and management
Procrastination
""Why Can't I Get Myself to...?"
The Four Cognitive Roots of Procrastination
and how to address each.
The Invisible Disabilities
Neurodiversity vs. Mental Health Disorders and moving through the world with them.
