LGBTQ+ WAE: The Power of an Inclusive Community

The intention of LGBTQ+ WAE is to bring together a group of people who share similar life experiences and to enjoy the support of that community. The goal: to lessen the isolation and reduce stereotypes and misperceptions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) who identify as LGBTQ+. Regularly scheduled online or in-person meetings allow participants to connect with others who deal with similar issues in a more diverse group than they might otherwise encounter.

A Safe Place for the IDD and ASD Community and Allies

LGBTQ+ WAE is a community focused on social interaction, education, individual expression, and advocacy for people with IDD and/or ASD who self-identify as LGBTQ+. The group supports each individual and their community in expanding knowledge and understanding of day-to-day issues faced by people who identify with the LGBTQ+ community.  In addition, it serves as a resource to caregivers, families, and allies so that they may better understand, support and advocate for the person in their care.

Holistic Approach to Wellness

The community aligns with the WAE Center’s philosophy of “Finding the Spark Within” each individual and supporting their discovery process.

The WAE (Wellness, Arts, Enrichment) Center’s distinctive approach is built around:

• Dedication to the individual
• Unconditional acceptance
• Promoting self-expression
• Meaningful life engagement / friendship
• Embracing diversity in all aspects of our community
• Inclusion/participation in the local communities

Meeting Schedule

• Monthly meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month @ 7pm. Please email lcorner@jsdd.org to RSVP.
• Meetings are solely online until further notice.

LGBTQ+ WAE Coordinator/Facilitator: Lisa Corner

Involved with the LGBTQ+ rights community and movement for many years, Lisa is excited to facilitate the LGBTQ+ WAE program. She leads monthly meetings of the LGBTQ+ WAE group and welcomes LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to join in and attend!

Lisa is passionate about creating inclusive communities where all people are valued and able to express their full humanity. Helping people to live authentically and feel a sense of belonging to their larger community is key to this work. This group allows LGBTQ+ individuals a place to learn, laugh and socialize, while creating a safe space to explore and express individual identities.

Lisa’s Professional Background

Lisa Corner has the heart of a teacher! She began her career in education over 20 years ago teaching eventually moving into leadership positions. She has an M.A. from Montclair State University in Educational Leadership. She taught for many years at the JCC on the Palisades Therapeutic Nursery (currently The Springboard School) before moving to CT to direct the PALS program at Carmel Academy. Eventually she began and directed a successful inclusion track known as Nexus, for K-8 students at The Mead School in Stamford.

Have questions about LGBTQ+ WAE?

For more information and to join us, email our facilitator Lisa Corner at lcorner@jsdd.org.

Supported by a generous grant from The Healthcare Foundation of NJ