The Adult Autism Group began in September 2011 in Springfield, Illinois, as a small informal support group called Puzzle Solvers. A few autistic adults, parents, and community members came together to create connection and conversation where there had been very little.
In the early years, we explored different organizational models and officially incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2015. Like many growing organizations, we were ambitious. We built structure, created bylaws, and developed long-range plans.
Over time, we learned something important: what our community needed most wasn’t a complex structure. It was a consistent, welcoming space.
In 2019, we revised our bylaws and reorganized under a new name — The Adult Autism Group — to better reflect our purpose. Today, we focus on building a supportive social community for autistic adults. We provide opportunities to gather, share experiences, and connect with others who understand.
We are also working to expand educational opportunities by inviting resource speakers and community partners to share information that supports independence, well-being, and self-advocacy.
What began as a vision for something large has become something intentional: a growing, grassroots community centered on belonging.
And we’re continuing to build it — together.