A Social Experience for Adults Ages 20–29 at Acacia Reservation
Geauga County, OH – May 19, 2025 – 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 www.npowerservices.com. 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.
Speed Dating and Friending on the Spectrum: 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.
Speed Dating and Friending on the Spectrum: Participant Criteria
To ensure a positive and inclusive experience, participants must meet certain benchmarks of independence and social readiness. This event is for people who:
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Have the ability to use a cell phone
- Are actively working, volunteering, enrolled in college full-time, or actively seeking employment
- Are 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.
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. To learn more, please visit www.npowerservices.com and click on the “Dating & Friendship” tab.
Link to questionnaire. Anyone selected to participate in this event will receive an email for registration and payment by early July 2025.
