Speed Dating and Friending on the Spectrum
A Social Experience for Adults Ages 20–29 at Acacia Reservation

NPower Services, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting adults with developmental disabilities, is proud to announce Speed Dating and Friending on the Spectrum, a unique social experience happening on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Acacia Shelter in Lyndhurst, Ohio (across from Cleveland Clinic on Cedar Road).

This event is designed specifically for heterosexual, differently-abled adults ages 20 to 29. Participants will take part in a structured, yet fun evening focused on building connections—whether for friendship or romance.

To be considered, interested individuals must complete a brief online questionnaire by July 1 at NPower Services’ website on the “Friendship and Dating” tab. Due to limited capacity and pairing, not all applicants will be selected to participate in this event. Depending on the interest level, future events may be planned.

Event Details

• Date: Tuesday, July 15, 2025
• Time: 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. (Optional social coaching begins promptly at 6:30 p.m.)
• Location: Acacia Shelter, Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, OH
• Cost: $20.00 (non-refundable)

The $20 registration fee includes pre-event social coaching led by Joseph Cirino, a behavioral specialist from Dragonfly Behavioral Services. Joseph will share some basic social and conversation reminders, and tips for handling awkward moments as well as how to set social and emotional boundaries. Participants will also enjoy hors d'oeuvres and mocktails provided by Guarino’s Restaurant.

Participant Criteria
To ensure a positive and inclusive experience, participants must meet certain benchmarks of independence and social readiness, including:

• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to use a cell phone
• Actively working, volunteering, enrolled in college full-time, or actively seeking employment
• Able to participate in social activities independently

“Socializing and dating can be intimidating for anyone—but especially for those on the spectrum,” says Lori Weber, Founder of NPower Services. “Many neurodivergent individuals miss the subtle cues of conversation and body language, which can make forming relationships difficult. This event aims to provide a safe and supportive space for participants to learn, practice, and make genuine connections—whether those are friendships or something more.”

During the event, participants will be paired with members of the opposite sex for a series of four-minute conversations, using guided prompts to help facilitate engaging dialogue. After each round, participants will note their impressions and indicate whether they’d like to connect again. At the end of the evening, matches will receive each other’s contact information for future social opportunities. Parents, drivers or guardians of participants are respectfully asked to enjoy the other areas of the park during the event. This event is for young adults to socialize on their own. 

This event reflects NPower Services’ and Dragonfly Behavioral Services’ broader mission of fostering independence, confidence, mental fitness, and joy in everyday adult experiences. Speed Dating and Friending on the Spectrum offers a space for authentic connection and growth in a welcoming environment.

More info here.