Spectrum Social Squad is a peer-led social group for Autistic adults (18+) on the Gold Coast and surround. We create safe and inclusive spaces where you connect, have fun, and build community without pressure or judgment. Our events, ranging from free monthly meetups to community outings, are hosted by Volunteer Neurodivergent staff who truly understand. Come as are, find your people, and celebrate neurodiversity with us! We are transitioning into a registered not-for-profit organisation. Our mission to provide consistent, accessible, and low-cost programming tailored to the needs of Autistic adults. To achieve this, are actively seeking grant funding and corporate sponsorships to establish our operational infrastructure and expand our activities. We invite you to join us in this mission please contact us to discuss potential partnership opportunities
Our Services
Get Out & Get Social!
Join us for fun, inclusive group outings like bowling, mini golf, beach walks, museum visits, theatre & Cinema nights, cafe hangs, & more hosted by Neurodivergent staff who get it. Build friendships, confidence & connection in the community!
Community and Social Participation Events
Our organisation is currently working toward not-for-profit status with a clear mission: to provide ongoing, free, or low-cost activities for the Autistic community. We are currently seeking grants and sponsorships to build the necessary foundation to increase our impact and launch new initiatives. If you are interested in supporting our work or getting involved, we would love to hear from you. We deeply appreciate any support you can provide.
Not-For-Profit
Peer Support That Gets You,
Connect with Neurodivergent peers in a safe, understanding space. Our peer-led support is all about shared lived experience, real connection, and walking alongside you no judgment, just genuine support. Once we become a not-for-profit organisation we will be offering mentoring within the squad community.
Peer Support
ALL EVENTS ON HIATUS!!
Spectrum Social Squad
Our Mission
At Spectrum Social Squad, our mission is to create safe, supportive, and empowering spaces where Autistic adults can connect, thrive, and build meaningful relationships. Through inclusive social events, tailored community participation activities, and individualised coaching, we promote personal growth, self-expression, and wellbeing, while celebrating the strengths and diversity of every individual.
BY AUTISTIC FOR AUTISTICS!!
Vision
We envision a world where every Autistic adult feels valued, connected, and empowered to live authentically. Spectrum Social Squad strives to be a leader in fostering inclusive communities that champion neurodiversity, nurture genuine connections, and support individuals in achieving their personal and social goals.
Our events focus on enhancing social and life skills, enabling growth and empowerment.
Community
At the heart of Spectrum Social Squad is a vibrant and supportive community of Autistic adults who come together to connect, share, and grow. We celebrate neurodivergent identities and foster a culture of acceptance, understanding, and mutual respect. Whether you're attending our social events, participating in group activities, or simply dropping by to say hello, you'll find a welcoming space where you can truly be yourself without pressure, expectation, or judgment.
Our community thrives on authentic connection and shared experience. It’s a place to meet like-minded people, explore common interests, and build lasting friendships in an environment that prioritizes comfort, inclusion, and a strong sense of belonging.
Together, we celebrate neurodiversity and the unique strengths of each individual.
Empowerment
Spectrum Social Squad is more than just a social group it’s a space for empowerment, growth, and self-discovery. Through skill-building sessions, one-on-one coaching with our Psychosocial Recovery Coach, and NDIS-supported participation options, we support each individual’s journey on their own terms.
We believe empowerment comes from being seen, heard, and respected. That’s why our approach centres on choice, autonomy, and personal development providing the tools and encouragement to build confidence, strengthen communication, and live authentically in a world that often misunderstands neurodivergent experiences.
Our events aim to enrich lives, nurture talents, and create lasting connections.
Meet the Team
Our dedicated team is committed to supporting and empowering our community through every step of the way.
Please contact us if you would like to be a part of Spectrum Social Squads Team.
Neurodiverse Psychosocial Recovery Coach
Danielle Maynard
Meet Our Autism Specialist & Psychological Recovery Coach
With over 20 years of experience in business development and management Including as National Business Manager for iconic brands such as Guess and Levi's our Psychological Recovery Coach brings a wealth of leadership and operational expertise. She has managed teams of over 500 staff across Australia and New Zealand, and has also led operations in the nightclub and music festival industries.
Her professional journey is complemented by studies in psychology, Autism, ADHD, business management, time management, and marketing. She has lived experience with Autism neurodivergence, disability, chronic illness, and firsthand knowledge of navigating complex systems such as the NDIS and Centrelink.
Deeply empathetic and community-minded, she volunteers at nursing homes with her certified therapy dog, bringing joy and connection to residents. She is also the founder of Spectrum Social Squad, a grassroots initiative dedicated to building a likeminded, neurodivergent community on the Gold Coast. For the past two years, she has been running free events at Autism Gold Coast, offering safe, inclusive spaces for connection and growth.
With strengths in organisation, communication, problem solving, time management, and attention to detail, paired with her authentic, lived experience, she provides a grounded, compassionate, and empowering approach to psychological recovery coaching.
Community Outreach Therapy
Tinkerbella
Meet Tinkerbella, the loveable companion who thrives off affection and brings a smile to everyone's face. With hyper allergenic coat and irresistibly soft fur, she's the perfect snuggle buddy. The past 10 years, Tinkerbella has been spreading joy through her work at nursing homes, making a positive impact in the lives of those she meets. Whether it's a gentle or a warm cuddle, Tinkerbella is always ready to share her love.
Testimonials
Client Experiences
Our members share how Spectrum Social Squad has positively impacted their lives, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.
Elly's Story
Spectrum Social Squad is a fun and supportive environment where I feel safe and valued by all. Danielle is an incredible organiser who fully understands Neurodivergence and truly wants the best for all the squad members, especially to feel included and seen! Couldn’t recommend this group and Danielle’s services enough!
John's Experience
I like the company and playing games with friends. I'm getting motivated to get out and come down to the group. Everyone makes me feel welcome.
Anonymous
Proud new spectrum social spectrum squad member :)
I feel so happy and comfortable going to spectrum social squad (I've only attended twice :))
I've never been this comfortable around a group of people before ever , as I'm now surrounded with people like myself I'm thinking ,I've never had that before ever.
Dani is so welcoming, helpful and accepting and will always help you during the games ect if you need "