Find Support, Resources, and Connection at Brilliant Mornings

Brilliant Mornings

A free, monthly morning meetup for parents and caregivers of neurodivergent children

 

Format: In Person
Offered: 3rd Saturday of the Month
Time: 9:00 - 10:30 am CST
Price: Free
Location: Lubar Entrepreneurship Center, 2100 E Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53211

New to Islands of Brilliance?
We’d love to help. Connect with Us if you have any questions!

 
 

 Join us on Saturday, February 15 for our next FREE session!

Safe Connections – Navigating the Digital Minefield

Cyberbullying, Catfishing, Sexual Exploitation and Vulnerability among Neurodivergent Individuals.

TIME: 9:00 - 10:30 am CST
LOCATION: UWM’s Lubar Entrepreneurship Center (MAP)

Guest Speaker:
Ellen Merker, M.S., LPC
Founding Director of Heart Consulting

Guest Speaker:
Nicholas Pottraz
Supervisory Special Agent, Federal Bureau of Investigation

Program Description

We get it. Parenting or caregiving for a neurodivergent child can feel overwhelming, isolating, and uncertain. Maybe you’ve struggled to find the right resources or navigate complex systems to find services. Or perhaps you’ve wished for a community of people who truly understand your journey.

Join us for Brilliant Mornings, a warm, welcoming space created just for you.

At Brilliant Mornings, we brew up more than just great coffee. You’ll discover a community filled with support, valuable resources, and real connection, all in a relaxed and positive atmosphere.

What to Expect

Each month, we dive into topics that matter most to parents and caregivers, including:

  • Navigating Service Funding and Appeals: Get clarity on the process and overcome roadblocks.

  • Mastering the IEP Process: Advocate confidently for your child’s education.

  • Safety First: Learn about 911 registration and positive police interactions.

  • Thriving Through Holidays: Strategies to make special occasions joyful and stress-free.

  • And More!

Why Join Us?

  • Expert Guidance: Learn from professionals and gain access to valuable resources.

  • Community Connection: Meet parents and caregivers who “get it.”

  • Judgment-Free Zone: Share your experiences and ask questions without hesitation.

  • A Positive Start: Begin your weekend with coffee, music, and uplifting energy.

  • Feel Empowered: Leave each session feeling informed, connected, and ready to tackle challenges.

Don't face the challenges alone. Join our Brilliant community and let's brighten up those morning hours together. We can't wait to see you there!

 

Brilliant Mornings 2025 Topic Calendar:

  • February 15: Safe Connections – Navigating the Digital Minefield | Register

  • March 15: Medicaid vs. Medicare | Register

  • April 19: Financial Planning | Register

  • May 17: Mental Health | Register

  • June 21: Guardianship vs. Supported Decision Making | Register

  • July 19: Topic TBD | Register

  • August 16: Topic TBD | Register

  • September 20: Topic TBD | Register

  • October 18: Employment Opportunities | Register

  • November 15: Caregiver Appreciation & Respite Care | Register

  • December 20: Topic TBD | Register

Who Should Attend?

Brilliant Mornings is perfect for parents and caregivers who:

  • Are seeking a supportive community that understands their unique challenges.

  • Want expert insights on navigating resources, services, and developmental milestones.

  • Appreciate the value of a safe, welcoming space to ask questions and share stories.

October Recap:

Resources to help you navigate safety with your children / loved ones.

Download the slideshow using the button below or click on the image to view.

September Recap:

The Functional Screening process: What it is and how to navigate it.
We had an amazing first meeting and we thank everyone for making it a success!!

Explore Our Programs

  • Open Lab Programs

    Our most frequent and accessible options, Open Lab Programs provide a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment for your child to learn, create, and connect…including our Daily Doodle Lounge!

  • Foundation Programs

    Led by a certified educator, students are paired with a professional design mentor to learn technical software skills using various creative technologies and build social and emotional development skills.

  • Academy Programs

    The most rigorous IOB program, Digital Academy provides apprentice-style instruction in a product-based learning environment.

  • Community Programs

    Whether you’re a young adult living with autism or is someone who loves and supports them, we know life can be challenging. Our Community Support programs provide professional and peer guidance to help along the journey.