Together We Rise:
My Autism Ally Caregiver Retreat
October 3rd & 4th 2025
Give the gift of relaxation to the overworked autism or special needs caregiver in your life!
Whether your treating yourself, or someone else you know for a few days of pampering and friendship, the Together We Rise Caregiver Retreat is a wonderful way to care for the autism or special needs caregiver in your life. This TWO FULL DAY event is being held in Fort Wayne, Indiana at the Grand Wayne Convention Center. We will have a limited number of discounted hotel rooms available at the Fort Wayne Hilton. Hilton also provides a free shuttle services to and from Fort Wayne International Airport. It is possible to attend the event and not need to rent a car!
Fort Wayne was recently ranked as the Most Affordable Place to Live in the US. We are all about having a good time, and doing it on a budget, making your trip affordable and easy, without skimping on the fun! Don’t miss out on our Hoosier Hospitality!
Below is information about this year’s speakers and a list of activities.
Hotel accomodations are being provided by the Fort Wayne Hilton located within the Grand Wayne Center. They provide a FREE shuttle to and from Fort Wayne International Airport. That’s Right! You DON’T need to rent a car!! Special room rates will be available. Watch here for hotel information coming soon.
Does a desk full of paperwork look familar? Or perhaps your car is full of constantly changing to do lists written quickly on sticky notes like mine.
Regardless, of how your space looks, we want to help you take some time to take care of yourself!
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Kate Swenson
Kate Swenson lives in Minnesota with her husband Jamie, and four children, Cooper, Sawyer, Harbor and Wynnie. Kate launched Finding Cooper's Voice from her couch while her now 11-year-old son Cooper was being diagnosed with autism. Back then it was a place to write. Today it is a living, thriving community of people who want to not only advocate for autism, but also make the world a better place for individuals with disabilities and their families.
Kate will be speaking for 60 minutes followed by a book signing and meet and greet time. Copies of her latest book will be for sale at the event.
You can find out more about Kate through her social media.
A limited number of tickets are available for our VIP session with Kate at the Grand Wayne Center on October 2nd from 5:30-7:30pm. Be sure to add this additional ticket to your cart!
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Brittany Till
As a mom of a child with autism, I know firsthand the challenges that come with special-needs parenting. But my own autism diagnosis gives me a unique perspective into my son needs, help others accept who he is and give him a sense of connection to the world around us.
My mission has been to overcome the relentless struggle of poor mental health and the feeling of running on empty. With eight years of experience as an online health and wellness coach, I’ve empowered thousands of women to take control of their health while navigating the chaos of mom life. My passion is about helping you finally carve out time for yourself and build a routine that empowers you to feel amazing. If you want to give your family the best of you, you must start by taking care of yourself first. Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Brittany will be speaking for 60 minutes followed by a meet and greet time.
You can find out more about Brittany through her social media.
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Thursday Evening - VIP Session
A VIP session with Kate is available on October 2nd from 5:30 - 7:30pm.
This is an optional purchase that you can add in addition to your event ticket checkout.
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Friday
Optional Gentle Chair Yoga/Meditation session- No experience required
Welcome and whole group activity
Kate Swenson presentation
Lunch
Breakout sessions. Choose as many or few as you wish. Crafting, Pampering Sessions, shopping with vendors at the convention center or just go exploring the city on your own
Exploring the city on your own. Information on local attractions will be made available in your welcome packet at the event.
Evening Group Gathering event from 7-10pm. This year we will be hosting a Costume Party so be sure to pack something fun to wear! This is an optional purchase that you can add in addition to your event ticket at checkout. Dessert and beverages will be included in the ticket price.
More details to come.
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Saturday
Optional Gentle Chair Yoga/Meditation session- No experience required
Welcome and whole group activity
Brittany Till presentation
Lunch
Breakout sessions. Choose as many or few as you wish. Crafting, Pampering Sessions, shopping with vendors at the convention center or just go exploring the city on your own.
Exploring the city on your own. Information on local attractions will be made available in your welcome packet at the event.
More details to come!
We can’t wait for you to visit Fort Wayne and experience Hoosier Hospitality!
Fort Wayne is Indiana's second-largest city. A true gem of the Midwest, Fort Wayne is filled with new experiences, award-winning attractions, and unique flavors.
If you are interested in being a sponsor of this event, click the Sponsor Opportunities button below.
Contact us at info@myautismally.org or 260-207-4686 if you have any questions.
A HUGE “Thank You” to our event sponsors!
