Unless an event is listed as being exclusively for our Friendship House community, you are welcome to participate in the activities below. Some are sponsored by Our Place. Others are sponsored by our partners. If there is a fee, that information is listed. If space is limited, that information also is listed.
Come join Sam Frazee for a friendly, laid back, acoustic jam. Bring a song to share. Click here to learn more.
Are you ready to get stronger - physically and mentally?
So many of our families and residents talk about wanting to get more active as part of being independent. We’re starting up something exciting this week for all our residents and for those on the waiting list: a 6-week long Train 4 Life program with Special Olympics held right here at Our Place! This class is a great opportunity to meet those goals, and you’ll be coached by a trainer throughout the entire process!
All classes will be held on Wednesdays from 5-6pm at Friendship House 5, and the first class is Wednesday, April 16th.
This is week three of a six-week program that is for current residents and waiting list members. We will do this group again in the future, so please keep your eyes peeled if you missed the opportunity to sign up for this class but would like to do so again in the future.
The Ascent is a group that meets periodically on Sunday evenings with a time of fellowship, amazing worship, a fun activity, and a message geared toward adults with special needs. Please register so that they will know if you will be joining them for dinner to ensure they have enough food for everyone! Registration for this activity won’t open until late April. There is no cost to Ascent participants.
For more information about The Ascent, the group’s calendar of events in 2025, and about the Special Needs Ministry of Christ Presbyterian Church, contact Gigi Sanders.
Dr. Adam Anthony, an Educational Consultant, will be joining us to talk to residents about boosting their confidence and independence. He will focus on practical ways to build self-confidence in daily life and work, strategies for setting personal goals and developing independence, and how to embrace community support while maintaining self-sufficiency! OPN Community Classes are open to ALL Current and Waiting List residents. If you are not on the waiting list but would like to sign up for just the classes, please let us know. Classes are hosted at the Community Room at Friendship House 5 from 6:00pm-7:00pm. This class will also have a virtual option for those who are unable to join in person, here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2593782809.
Join Nashville’s Metro Parks to learn about the story of Fort Negley Park. From a tree-topped oasis outside early 19th century Nashville, to an imposing fortress guarding the Union stronghold, to restoration and neglect, and its recent addition to UNESCO sites of memory. All covered on a one-mile guided walking tour.
Attendees are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
Please RSVP to FortNegley@nashville.gov
Are you ready to get stronger - physically and mentally?
So many of our families and residents talk about wanting to get more active as part of being independent. We’re starting up something exciting this week for all our residents and for those on the waiting list: a 6-week long Train 4 Life program with Special Olympics held right here at Our Place! This class is a great opportunity to meet those goals, and you’ll be coached by a trainer throughout the entire process!
All classes will be held on Wednesdays from 5-6pm at Friendship House 5, and the first class is Wednesday, April 16th.
This is week four of a six-week program that is for current residents and waiting list members. We will do this group again in the future, so please keep your eyes peeled if you missed the opportunity to sign up for this class but would like to do so again in the future.
Join us for a joyful celebration at the end of the Spring semester of OPN Monday Night Classes with MOVE Inclusive Dance! We're wrapping up the semester with music, movement, and plenty of fun. Megan from MOVE Inclusive Dance will lead an energetic and inclusive session that gets everyone grooving. Come dance, connect, and celebrate a great season together!
OPN Classes are open to ALL Current and Waiting List residents. If you are not on the waiting list but would like to sign up for just the classes, please contact us. Classes are hosted at the Community Room at Friendship House 5 from 6:00pm-7:00pm. If you’d like to attend virtually, please contact us to receive the zoom link.
Are you ready to get stronger - physically and mentally?
So many of our families and residents talk about wanting to get more active as part of being independent. We’re starting up something exciting this week for all our residents and for those on the waiting list: a 6-week long Train 4 Life program with Special Olympics held right here at Our Place! This class is a great opportunity to meet those goals, and you’ll be coached by a trainer throughout the entire process!
All classes will be held on Wednesdays from 5-6pm at Friendship House 5, and the first class is Wednesday, April 16th.
This is week four of a six-week program that is for current residents and waiting list members. We will do this group again in the future, so please keep your eyes peeled if you missed the opportunity to sign up for this class but would like to do so again in the future.
Are you ready to get stronger - physically and mentally?
So many of our families and residents talk about wanting to get more active as part of being independent. We’re starting up something exciting this week for all our residents and for those on the waiting list: a 6-week long Train 4 Life program with Special Olympics held right here at Our Place! This class is a great opportunity to meet those goals, and you’ll be coached by a trainer throughout the entire process!
All classes will be held on Wednesdays from 5-6pm at Friendship House 5, and the first class is Wednesday, April 16th.
This is week six of a six-week program that is for current residents and waiting list members. We will do this group again in the future, so please keep your eyes peeled if you missed the opportunity to sign up for this class but would like to do so again in the future.
Tennessee’s premiere disability conference returns to the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel. The two day event features keynote speakers discussing the past, present, and future of disability. Stipends are available for attendees who may not otherwise be able to afford the conference.
Our Place Nashville has partnered with Empower Music Therapy numerous times this year. It is a therapy practice that uses music as a tool to address some of the most difficult of topics. We are excited to partner with Empower again, this time for a six week summer program that will be exploring the themes of personal safety and boundaries, group dynamics, coping with anger or frustration, self-confidence/self- belief, and self-advocacy, The group meets at Friendship House 6 on Wednesdays from 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm.
This class will be open to current residents first, and then to those on the waiting list. Keep your eyes peeled for sign up information!
The IDEAL Summer Academy is a unique, week-long residential experience tailored for students with intellectual disabilities.
The IDEAL Summer Academy offers students, from rising high school seniors to young adults up to age 25, an opportunity to explore the possibilities of post-secondary education. During this week-long residential program, participants will gain firsthand experience of college life, helping them determine if pursuing post-secondary education is the right path for them.
The link to apply is here.
For prospective students, applications for Summer Academy opened on February 1, 2025, and will close on April 1, 2025. While you may still apply after this date, you may not be considered for acceptance. Summer Academy applications will only be reviewed after all materials have been submitted. Applicants will be notified of the next steps once application materials are reviewed by the IDEAL team.
If you have any questions, contact the IDEAL team for more information.
Our Place Nashville has partnered with Empower Music Therapy numerous times this year. It is a therapy practice that uses music as a tool to address some of the most difficult of topics. We are excited to partner with Empower again, this time for a six week summer program that will be exploring the themes of personal safety and boundaries, group dynamics, coping with anger or frustration, self-confidence/self- belief, and self-advocacy, The group meets at Friendship House 6 on Wednesdays from 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm.
This class will be open to current residents first, and then to those on the waiting list. Keep your eyes peeled for sign up information!
Our Place Nashville has partnered with Empower Music Therapy numerous times this year. It is a therapy practice that uses music as a tool to address some of the most difficult of topics. We are excited to partner with Empower again, this time for a six week summer program that will be exploring the themes of personal safety and boundaries, group dynamics, coping with anger or frustration, self-confidence/self- belief, and self-advocacy, The group meets at Friendship House 6 on Wednesdays from 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm.
This class will be open to current residents first, and then to those on the waiting list. Keep your eyes peeled for sign up information!
Our Place Nashville has partnered with Empower Music Therapy numerous times this year. It is a therapy practice that uses music as a tool to address some of the most difficult of topics. We are excited to partner with Empower again, this time for a six week summer program that will be exploring the themes of personal safety and boundaries, group dynamics, coping with anger or frustration, self-confidence/self- belief, and self-advocacy, The group meets at Friendship House 6 on Wednesdays from 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm.
This class will be open to current residents first, and then to those on the waiting list. Keep your eyes peeled for sign up information!
Our Place Nashville has partnered with Empower Music Therapy numerous times this year. It is a therapy practice that uses music as a tool to address some of the most difficult of topics. We are excited to partner with Empower again, this time for a six week summer program that will be exploring the themes of personal safety and boundaries, group dynamics, coping with anger or frustration, self-confidence/self- belief, and self-advocacy, The group meets at Friendship House 6 on Wednesdays from 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm.
This class will be open to current residents first, and then to those on the waiting list. Keep your eyes peeled for sign up information!
Glassville will be visiting our newest property to teach glass art. Glassville teaches both stained and fused glass art at their studios, and will be bringing their expertise to Our Place Nashville for the evening. This event is open to resident and anyone on the waitlist.
Glassville will be visiting our newest property to teach glass art. Glassville teaches both stained and fused glass art at their studios, and will be bringing their expertise to Our Place Nashville for the evening. This event is open to resident and anyone on the waitlist.
Discover the stories behind Nashville’s most iconic spots with Tessa Searing! From legendary music venues to hidden local gems, this class dives into the rich history that makes Music City so unique. Whether you're a longtime local or new to town, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the places that shape Nashville’s culture and charm.
OPN Community Classes are open to ALL Current and Waiting List residents. If you are not on the waiting list but would like to sign up for just the classes, please contact us. Classes are hosted at the Community Room at Friendship House 5 from 6:00pm-7:00pm.
Join MetroParks disABILITIES program for their Community Bonfire! All are welcome to join for a fun evening of hiking, fire, socialization, and hot dogs. MPDP will provide hot dogs, buns, and condiments. Bring your favorite sides and drinks for a potluck.
Don't forget to bring your camping chair!
All friends new and old are welcome to join us for this free event!!! Click here for the address and to register.
Are you ready to get stronger - physically and mentally?
So many of our families and residents talk about wanting to get more active as part of being independent. We’re starting up something exciting this week for all our residents and for those on the waiting list: a 6-week long Train 4 Life program with Special Olympics held right here at Our Place! This class is a great opportunity to meet those goals, and you’ll be coached by a trainer throughout the entire process!
All classes will be held on Wednesdays from 5-6pm at Friendship House 5, and the first class is Wednesday, April 16th.
This is week two of a six-week program that is for current residents and waiting list members. We will do this group again in the future, so please keep your eyes peeled if you missed the opportunity to sign up for this class but would like to do so again in the future.
We’re taking a break for Monday, April 21st, but we will be back next Monday the 28th!
Are you ready to get stronger - physically and mentally?
So many of our families and residents talk about wanting to get more active as part of being independent. We’re starting up something exciting this week for all our residents and for those on the waiting list: a 6-week long Train 4 Life program with Special Olympics held right here at Our Place! This class is a great opportunity to meet those goals, and you’ll be coached by a trainer throughout the entire process!
All classes will be held on Wednesdays from 5-6pm at Friendship House 5, and the first class is Wednesday, April 16th.
You MUST register in advance if you want to participate in Train 4 Life. You can use THIS LINK to register. Spots are limited to current residents and those on the waiting list. Reach out to us if you have any questions!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS for Friday, May 9th if you'd like to attend the Tennessee Renaissance Festival! This event will go from 10am - 1pm, so be sure to check your work schedules and ask for that day off if you need to. Feel free to dress up!! We need a headcount of folks who want to go by May 2nd. We plan to provide transportation, but if you want to go and can help by driving a carpool, that'd be greatly appreciated! Please let Ashley know if you plan to attend 🎉
The Nashville Food Project brings people together to grow, cook, and share nourishing food, with the goal of cultivating community and alleviating hunger in our city. They are a wonderful partner of Our Place Nashville in providing our weekly community dinners. Brad Clark, a member of their culinary team, will be joining us to help our residents deepen their knowledge of healthy eating and the importance of taking care of their bodies with nourishing meals. Brad was formerly a resident support specialist with Our Place Nashville - and we’re so excited that he is able to come back as a volunteer!
OPN Community Classes are open to ALL Current and Waiting List residents. If you are not on the waiting list but would like to sign up for just the classes, please contact us. Classes are hosted at the Community Room at Friendship House 5 from 6:00pm-7:00pm (please note the change of time from previous semesters) … This class will also have a virtual option for those who are unable to join in person, here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2593782809
Money money money! We all want it, but sometimes we struggle to know how to handle it so that it doesn’t disappear before the end of the month! … Come hang out with Georgianna Hooker from Monroe Harding for a fun and practical class on money management and budgeting! She’ll share tips on how to handle your finances, set a budget that actually works, and make smart money choices. Whether you’re trying to save up, spend wisely, or just feel more in control of your cash, this class has got you covered!
OPN Community Classes are open to ALL Current and Waiting List residents. If you are not on the waiting list but would like to sign up for just the classes, please contact us. Classes are hosted at the Community Room at Friendship House 5 from 6:00pm-7:00pm.
Being part of a community means giving back to your community. Whether working a job, volunteering with nonprofits, or just visiting local businesses, ECF Choices can help. Join John Camperlino from United Healthcare to learn how ECF Choices can get you into the community as an active participant.
OPN Community Classes are open to ALL Current and Waiting List residents. If you are not on the waiting list but would like to sign up for just the classes, please contact us. Classes are hosted at the Community Room at Friendship House 5 from 6:00pm-7:00pm.
Humane Education can be defined as education that promotes compassion, empathy, and respect for all living beings. It encompasses the intersection of people, animals, and our shared environment. Participants will learn how to build confidence, gain trust and teach dogs basic cues through the power of positive reinforcement and the human-animal bond.
OPN Community Classes are open to ALL Current and Waiting List residents. If you are not on the waiting list but would like to sign up for just the classes, please contact us. Classes are hosted at the Community Room at Friendship House 5 from 6:00pm-7:00pm.
The MAPS program is a relatively new opportunity for those who either do not qualify for ECF Choices or who are on the waiting list for that service. MAPS is a 3-year program that allows for services and supports that help our residents gain independence and reach their goals.
Here is a note about this event from DDA:
Attached is a flyer for an upcoming Virtual Stakeholder Information Session, where participants will learn about MAPs as it enters its third year of providing vital services and supports to individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The results thus far have been significant, and we are excited to announce and see our capacity to expand from serving approximately 600 participants to over 1,200. We are actively looking to grow this program and offer these unique services across the state!
This session will not only increase awareness about the MAPs program but also provide a platform for questions and answers. Key staff from the Department of Disabilities and Aging (DDA) will be present to provide insights and answer any questions participants may have.
For more information, please refer to the DDA MAPs Website.
Renowned songwriter Roger Cook is spearheading his third benefit concert for Our Place Nashville with a few of his closest friends. Performing in an intimate songwriters in the round at 3rd & Lindsley, the talent includes Roger (You've Got Your Troubles, Here Comes that Rainy Day Feeling Again, Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress, I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing), Pat Alger (Unanswered Prayers, The Thunder Rolls), Gary Burr and Georgia Middleman (What Mattered Most, This is the Night), Dickey Lee (She Thinks I Still Care), Earl Bud Lee (Friends in Low Places), Richard Leigh (Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue, Life's Highway), Billy Prine (A Place I Used to Know), and Leslie Satcher (Troubador).
Doors open at 6:00 pm. Show starts at 7:30 pm. General Admission tickets are $20, VIP package is $200. You can buy tickets on the 3rd & Lindsley website here. Come early, get a good seat, order some dinner, and relax before the show starts!
If you’re interesting in being a sponsor, please contact Carolyn Naifeh.
Join MPDP Community Dance sponsored by The Rochelle Center for a day of fun, music, and St. Paddy's Day Shenanigans. Register here.
Tap into your artistic side during this hands-on art and nature workshop. Participants will create a one-of-a-kind collage with guidance from the Nashville Collage Collective. Please register for the event before attending.
Registration opens February 28; email wpnc@nashville.gov to register.
Disability Day on the Hill is your chance to unite as the Tennessee disability community and engage in the legislative process. As a part of DDH 2025, Tennessee Disability Coalition are hosting statewide virtual and in-person events in Nashville and at the State Capitol. The theme for DDH 2025 is "Liberty. Not Limits." This theme means that having a disability should not limit your liberty to live a life of your choosing. Mark your calendars for DDH 2025.
On March 11th, people with disabilities from accross the state will descend upon the capitol and meet with their legislators to discuss the issues important to them. Click here to learn more.
There’s a lot of misconceptions and confusion when it comes to dating, sex, and sexual health. Relationship and Sex Educator Clay Porter will be stopping by to talk about being safe in dating and sex. He will cover consent, STI’s, birth control, and all the uncomfortable things you want to know but were too embarrassed to ask. Bring your awkward questions!
Our Place Nashville’s Family Group meets virtually the first Tuesday of the month. This group is for families of Friendship House resident friends and for the families of individuals on Our Place Nashville’s waiting list. Organizers will send you the link by email in advance of the meeting.
This evening’s focus will be on “Getting and Keeping Social Security Benefits for Neurodiverse Adults: What Happens to their Benefits when They Get a Job, etc.” Lawyer Peter Skeie who will facilitate the evening’s discussion is a specialist in Social Security disability law.
For more information on this OPN Family Group meeting, contact OPN Family Group co-chair, John Bers.
Join CD Paddock from Shelby Parks to learn about the nature programs offered in your area. CD will answer the question, “What is seed saving?” OPN Community Classes are open to ALL Current and Waiting List residents.
If you are not on the waiting list but would like to sign up for just the classes, please contact us. Classes are hosted at the Community Room at Friendship House 5 from 6:00pm-7:00pm.
Join AutismTN for a few hours of fun and games! Game Day is a great opportunity to make friends in a relaxed environment. They'll have a variety of games to play, including classic favorites like Connect4 and Scrabble, as well as newer games like Catan. Light refreshments are provided.
Game Day is appropriate for children, teens, and adults on the autism spectrum. Parents/caregivers and siblings may join too. Bring a friend or come and make new ones – everyone is welcome!
If you have any questions, please reach out to Ashley Lira-Rivera. You can register here. The venue is near Rose Park; specifics will be provided after you register. The next Game Days are scheduled for February 1 and March 1.
For fans of AutismTN’s “Catch-A-Match,” Jeremy and Ilana Hamburgh of My Best Social Life as will share five practical steps to boost confidence, navigate social settings, and build relationships that can lead to friendships, dates, and more.
Research shows that when Autistic individuals come together, the sense of community sparks personal growth, emotional well-being, and social inclusion (Watts et al., 2024). Join AutismTN for this presentation and Q&A session to experience the magic of connection!
Mike Helms from Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is joining us for a community presentation on Deaf culture, how to support our Deaf or Hard of Hearing friends, and information about American Sign Language! There will also be time for a Q&A from our residents. This class will be a great opportunity to learn more about the Deaf community, so please join us! OPN Community Classes are open to ALL Current and Waiting List residents. If you are not on the waiting list but would like to sign up for just the classes, please contact us.
Classes are hosted at the Community Room at Friendship House 5 from 6:00pm-7:00pm.
Join the Metro Parks disABILITIES Program for a Community Day at The Belcourt Theatre. Doors open at 9:30 am and the movie will begin promptly at 10:00 am. This event is for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their caregivers. There is no cost to attend this movie, however you must have a ticket to attend.
The movie title will be available the week before the showing, please call the Metro Parks disABILITIES Program office for the movie selection.
For questions about this event or any Metro Parks disABILITIES Programs, please email Glen Adkins or call the Metro Parks disABILITIES office at 615-862-8489. You can register here for your free ticket after February 19.
There will be MPDP staff onsite to help facilitate the activity/event, but it is not the staff’s responsibility to care for individuals participating in Community Days.
What’s a Photo SLAM?
It’s like a poetry slam but for photographers! You’ll have 3 minutes to showcase up to 5 of your best photos in front of an enthusiastic audience. Are you a photographer—amateur or professional—ready to share your creativity and stories?
Join AbleVoices at its headquarters in Brentwood for an unforgettable evening of photography and fun! This Year’s Theme: SUPER PHUN! Capture the moments that make you smile, laugh, and feel alive! Whether it’s your favorite hobby, a thrilling adventure, or cherished memories, we want to see the joy through your lens.
Ticket information is available here. Venue has free parking. Appetizers and drinks will be providers.
Project SEARCH at VUMC is hosting a virtual information night on Wednesday, February 19th, from 7:30pm-8:30pm over Zoom (flyer attached above). This meeting is for anyone who is interested in participating in the Project SEARCH at VUMC program for the 2025-2026 program year. The Zoom link and meeting ID is listed below:
Topic: Project SEARCH Virtual Open House Feb. 19th
Time: Feb 19, 2025 07:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82422642501?pwd=mrUEsbLC8gamWjbCoAnzmFJ2cNNvFb.1
Meeting ID: 824 2264 2501
Passcode: 290132
For more information, contact Brandon Pflug.
Join AutismTN UAI for an In-Person Special Event: Introduction to SoulCollage®. Through a playful creative process, make your own cards that have the potential to connect you to self-discovery and provide personal guidance. Trained SoulCollage® facilitator and UAI Community Member Lesley Patterson-Marx will guide you in this expressive collage art practice wherein images and glue are transformed into your own deck of 5”x8” cards infused with personal meaning that can help you navigate life’s questions.
You don’t have to be an artist to make these wonderful cards in this introduction to a process that is both powerful and a lot of fun.
Soul Collage, founded by therapist Seena B. Frost, is a practice that can be done individually or in community. In this brief introduction to the many possibilities of SoulCollage®, you will create a card, and learn what it means to “speak” from your cards, sharing their meaning with fellow workshop participants in a nurturing, supportive environment.
You can register for this event here. Venue details will be provided after registration.
People First Tennessee is a grassroots membership disability rights group led by self-advocates with the goal of empowering people with disabilities to have voices in addressing issues of equality. If you are interested in advocating for yourself and other members of the disability community, then this meeting is for you. The Middle Tennessee chapter meets virtually every third Tuesday of the month at 3 pm. For more information, contact Rion Humphries at rhumphries@thearctn.org.
AutismTN's Unveiling Autistic Identity community group provides a welcoming space for adults who are discovering their Autistic identity later in life. As professional and public understanding of autism continues to improve, many people are becoming aware that they are Autistic in adulthood, either through a professional diagnosis or self-identification, often as a result of seeking mental health support or when their children are diagnosed.
This group fosters inclusive and supportive conversation and connection for late-identified Autistic people to share experiences and offer mutual support, explore their newfound identity and examine what it means for their lives, share in the self-discovery process, and empower each other to embrace their Autistic identity and become self-advocates.
This group typically meets on Zoom on the second Wednesday of each month from 6:30 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. CT. You can register here.
The next dates are March 13, April 10, May 1, and June 5. If you have questions about Unveiling Autistic Identity, please contact Casey Davis, Adult Program Director.
Our Place Nashville’s own Jordan Heykoop will walk our friends through the ever important life skill that is slime creation. Jordan will demonstrate how to make slime and explain why the ingredients interact the way they do. The slime is a tactile experience that can help with emotional regulation.
NOTE: No slime will be dumped on anyone’s head.
If you are not on the waiting list but would like to sign up for just the classes, please contact us. Classes are hosted at the Community Room at Friendship House 5 from 6:00pm-7:00pm.
Do you love to cook? Are you just learning to cook? Are you looking for new recipes? Are you looking for somewhere to learn how to cook? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then join MetroParks on Zoom every 2nd and 4th Monday at 5:00pm for a fun cooking experience.
Pam (a participant in the Day Programs) & her mother (Mary) lead the group in cooking a variety of foods. Recipe cards are sent out in advance including the list of needed ingredients. Then the group meets on Zoom to prepare the foods together.
For questions, comments, or concerns please contact Glen Adkins at golden.adkins@nashville.gov or call our offices at 615-862-8489.
Metro Parks disABILITIES Program will be hosting a community dance for Valentine’s Day thanks to support by the Rochelle Center. Join MPDP for a night of fun, music, and dancing with friends!
