### What is HearthKin Dojo?
HearthKin Dojo is a relationship-centered social group for neurodivergent individuals and families in Colorado. We welcome people of all ages — children, teens, young adults, parents, and grandparents — who are looking for genuine, meaningful connection.
Unlike activity-centered social groups where a program director chooses what everyone does, HearthKin Dojo puts relationships first. We gather, get to know one another, and then decide together what we want to do. The connection comes first. The activities follow.
### Who is HearthKin Dojo for?
HearthKin Dojo is for anyone who longs for deeper social connection:
- Autistic individuals looking for a safe, accepting social group
- Neurodivergent teens and young adults who want real friendships, not just activity partners
- Children with special needs who want to be known and understood
- Parents and caregivers who want connection for themselves, not just their children
- Families navigating autism, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, and other neurodivergent experiences
- Grandparents and elders who want intergenerational community
- Anyone who has ever felt unseen in a world not built for them
We don't separate by age. We don't require a diagnosis. If you want to connect authentically, you belong.
### What makes us different?
Most social groups and recreational programs for individuals with special needs are activity-centered. Someone picks an activity — bowling, movie night, arts and crafts — and everyone participates. Connection is a side effect, if it happens at all.
HearthKin Dojo is different:
- **Relationship-centered**: We start with each other, not an activity
- **Authentic self-expression**: This is a safe space to be yourself — no masking required
- **Member-directed**: The group decides what to do together, not a program director
- **Intergenerational**: All ages welcome — children, teens, adults, and elders gather together
- **Inclusive**: We welcome all forms of neurodivergence — autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, learning differences, and more
### How does it work?
We meet regularly at public libraries in the Denver metro area and online. When we gather, we:
1. Start by connecting — sharing what's on our hearts, learning who's in the room
2. Build relationships through presence and authentic conversation
3. Decide together what activities the group wants to pursue
4. Support each other in organizing and participating in those activities
A trained facilitator holds the space and ensures everyone feels safe, but the direction of the group belongs to its members.
### Where do we meet?
HearthKin Dojo meets in person at public libraries in the Denver metropolitan area, Colorado. We also offer online gatherings through our Discord community for those who prefer to connect from home.
### How to join
HearthKin Dojo welcomes new members at any time. To learn more or to talk about whether this might be a good fit:
- **Phone**: 720-633-4832
- **Email**: shore@hearthkindojo.com
- **Website**: HEARThKinDojo.com
- **Discord**: Join our online community at https://discord.gg/HWU8hdW9Ru
### About the founder
HearthKin Dojo was founded by Lamar (Shore), a parent of neurodivergent children. After searching for social groups that prioritized genuine connection over scheduled activities, Shore created HearthKin Dojo to fill the gap — a safe, relationship-centered space where neurodivergent individuals of all ages can be truly seen and known.
