Akoma Cares

Chicago is taking a massive step forward in making educational resources more accessible for its youth! In a sweeping new initiative, Chicago Public Schools students can now use their everyday school ID numbers to access books, professional tutoring, and digital databases at all 81 Chicago Public Library branches.

Read the full story: https://www.theqgentleman.com/post/2026-04-chicago-turns-all-public-school-ids-into-library-cards-to-boost-student-access/

Connections were made today at Kindred Hearts South Carolina Social and Emotional Intelligence Summit today! Our community is rich with resources for families here in the Columbia and surrounding areas. The goal is always connecting and staying informed. ❤️

Once again, the community showed up and showed out for Neurodiversity Among Us this year!

We felt every bit of the warm energy, the smiles, and the joy that flowed throughout the day. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event what it truly is about — community.

Our hope is that every guest walked away feeling seen, valued, and supported. ❤️

Special thanks to the following wonderful people and places:

Our partner-
Carolina Autism & Neurodevelopment Research Center

Location and staff-
Richland Library Southeast

Sponsors:
South Carolina State Museum scstatemuseum
Focus Play Focus Play
The Therapy Place The Therapy Place
Vision Therapy Institute Vision Therapy Institute
The Montgomery Clinic

And a heartfelt thank you to our amazing contributors, vendors, and volunteers — everyone who shared their time, talents, and donations to keep this mission moving forward.

Together, we continue to build a community where each unique mind and all disabilities are embraced, celebrated, and accepted. 🫶🏾

Dads, mark your calendars for Family Fun Day this Saturday!

Akoma Cares in partnership with the Carolina Autism & Neurodevelopment Research Center is hosting an afternoon celebrating neurodiversity with activities for all ages; silent disco, games, arts & crafts, scavenger hunt, snacks, and more.

A chance to connect with local advocates, resources, and families who understand the journey.

Thank you for celebrating neurodiversity and bringing our community together.

✨️ Join Us for a Special Storytime with Educator & Author Ajzahn Brown! ✨️

We’re excited to welcome Ajzahn Brown, first‑grade teacher and author of Amir’s Missing Puzzle Piece, to Neurodiversity Among Us for a meaningful and family‑friendly storytime experience!

This beautiful book uplifts tolerance, acceptance, and equity for children with disabilities. Through Amir’s eyes, his experiences in the world as an autistic individual are shared. It’s a heartfelt celebration of understanding and inclusion. 💙

Come be part of an afternoon filled with connection, storytelling, and community where every child feels seen, valued, and supported.

For details and purchase of Amir’s Missing Puzzle Piece, visit https://a.co/d/08ZmiX0M

📌Mark your calendars for the 4th annual Neurodiversity Among Us!

📍Richland Library Southeast
7421 Garners Ferry Rd
Columbia, SC 29223

⏰️ 12 pm to 2 pm

Tuesday, April 7, 2026! 🩵

Autism Connect is a gathering dedicated to bringing together individuals, families, and professionals in the autism community. Discover the latest research, innovative therapies, and support networks that can make a difference in the lives of those with autism.

To learn more, please visit https://ddsn.sc.gov/ddsn-divisions/autism/autismconnect

Hello to one of our event sponsors!Vision Therapy Institute

At Vision Therapy Institute, a combination of modern technology, compassionate care, and a genuinely fun atmosphere creates an experience that supports everyone’s whole visual health journey. From complex vision therapy cases to everyday eye care, patients feel heard, respected, and confident. With a program designed to fit the patient’s needs, while also helping to avoid surgeries or other invasive medical solutions.

The Vision Therapy Institute practice offers vision therapy for both adults and children proudly serving patients of all backgrounds, identities, and needs.

✨️To learn more about Vision Therapy Institute, please visit at
https://visiontherapysc.com/

📌Mark your calendars for the 4th annual Neurodiversity Among Us!

📍Richland Library Southeast

7421 Garners Ferry Rd
Columbia, SC 29223
⏰️ 12 pm to 2 pm

Teamwork makes the dream work…
and this team? We’re building with intention. Akoma Cares is evolving — and we’re excited for what’s ahead! ❤️🖤💛💚

Sharing moments from today’s event 🎉

A wonderful time engaging with our Lexington One community! The conversations and shared experiences in the room was felt.

A huge thank‑you to Parent Connections for hosting this incredible event and for creating a welcoming space for families and advocates to come together. ♥️

It's getting to be that time of year again. 🤣
Graphic via Journey Homeschool Academy

Tomorrow!

✨️Parent Connections will host their second annual and FREE event designed for families of students with disabilities to gain knowledge, access resources, and feel empowered.
Lise Smith and Nicci Smith, co-hosts of the Talk To Me Sis podcast and hit Netflix series Love on the Spectrum will share their stories live and in-person. 💙

Akoma Cares will have a table. We look forward to connecting- stop by and see us! 🎉

📌 Note: You do not have to reside or attend schools in Lexington One to attend this event.

For everyone- all ages to gain valuable resources.

To reserve a spot, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/parent-connections-2026-tickets-1980709523504