SharonKingWorldWide February 2026 Newsletter. Never Stop Advocating: Love, Strength & Community

Dear Phenomenal Special Needs Community,

Welcome to February 2026  a month filled with love, resilience, and new opportunities to grow, connect, and advocate for our children and loved ones with special needs. This month, as we celebrate the power of compassion during Valentine’s Day and honor the legacy and strength of Black History Month, we also recommit to uplifting one another through shared experiences, resources, and community events. Whether you’re seeking support at an inclusive workshop, looking for parent advocacy tools, or planning meaningful family activities, February brings a range of opportunities to come together with love, understanding, and determination. Remember: every step you take  no matter how small it feels  is a step toward progress, inclusion, and joy. You are seen, you are valued, and your ongoing resilience inspires change every single day. 

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Special Needs Events & Resources – February 2026

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Virtual & National Advocacy Events

• Developmental Disabilities Day (Maryland) – A statewide advocacy day to make disability voices heard, offered via Facebook Live and virtual platforms.
  🔗 More info: https://autismsocietymd.org/resources/state-national-advocacy/  
• Significant Support Needs – Power Hour (Colorado) – Monthly online support session for educators and caregivers.
  🔗 https://www.cde.state.co.us/calendar/ssn-ph-feb-2026  

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In-Person & Local Events

• Sensory Friendly Mornings – Children’s Museum of Discovery (CA) – Early access geared toward families with sensory sensitivities (weekly).
  🔗 https://specialneedsresourcefoundationofsandiego.com/events/  
• 17th Annual Mitchell Thorp Foundation Warrior Spirit 5K Run/Walk (Carlsbad, CA) – Awareness & fundraising event supporting life-threatening illness care.
  🔗 https://specialneedsresourcefoundationofsandiego.com/events/  
• Randy Jones Run/Walk & Roll for Independence (San Diego, CA) – Inclusive fitness and fun for children and families.
  🔗 https://specialneedsresourcefoundationofsandiego.com/events/  
• SYNC Inclusive Basketball Experience – Inclusive sports event for youth of all abilities.
  🔗 https://specialneedsresourcefoundationofsandiego.com/events/  
• NCCSE Community Resource Fair (San Marcos, CA) – FREE resource fair with local programs serving ages birth through young adulthood.
  🔗 https://specialneedsresourcefoundationofsandiego.com/events/  
• Special Needs Resource Fair – JCC of Central NJ (NJ) – A community fair with local service providers and support agencies.
  🔗 https://allevents.in/scotch-plains/2026-special-needs-resource-fair/200029554704503  
• First Friday Fun Night – Triangle Disability & Autism Services (NC) – Free inclusive social night for adults (18+).
  🔗 https://triangledisability.org/events/  

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Workshops & Support Groups

• From One Parent to Another: Navigating the IEP (Zoom) – Interactive virtual workshop to support IEP confidence.
  🔗 https://specialkidsconnect.org/events.html  
• Servicios del Departamento de Rehabilitación (Zoom) – Learn about rehabilitation services for 16–21-year-olds with documented disabilities.
  🔗 https://specialkidsconnect.org/events.html  
• Play, Connect, Grow – Parent & Child Development Class (Soledad, CA) – Family development event with encouragement and tools.
  🔗 https://specialkidsconnect.org/events.html  
• REACH Badminton (All Abilities) – Weekly inclusive sports activity for ages 10+ to build coordination, confidence, and social engagement.
  🔗 https://specialkidsconnect.org/events.html  
• Autism Connection of Pennsylvania Support Groups (Virtual) – Peer support groups for late diagnosis and caregiver connections.
  🔗 https://autismofpa.org/events/  

🧩 Additional Resources

• Autism Society San Francisco Bay Area Events – Inclusive family dance party, climbing party, and more.
  🔗 https://sfautismsociety.org/events/  

Closing Thoughts:

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Tips for the Month

✨ Plan sensory-friendly outings during quieter morning hours at local museums and community events. 

✨ Use online workshops to strengthen your advocacy skills and connect with other parents. 

✨ Join inclusive sports and social activities to build confidence, community, and joy.

With Love, Gratitude and Appreciation,

Sharon Mae King

Founder & CEO of SharonKingWorldWide