Social Groups/After-School
Designed to cater to neurodivergent profiles, these afterschool and summer activities offer opportunities for social connection, community outings, and exploration of special interests.
Social Skills Programming
Providing a Safe Place for Fun + Learning
At Empowering Kids, we go beyond exploring special interests and building social connections—we’re focused on helping individuals understand their unique profiles and recognize their strengths. Our goal is to equip each person with the tools they need to advocate for themselves and grow through experiences tailored to their needs.
We believe progress happens when families are engaged. That’s why we keep parents informed about group activities and milestones, encouraging meaningful conversations at home and promoting advocacy that extends into everyday life.
After-School Social Groups
This group offers neurodivergent to children grades 5 to 12, with a chance to build friendships, develop social-emotional skills, and engage in fun, hands-on activities.
Empowering Kids’ after-school groups provide a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where neurodivergent children can build friendships, strengthen social-emotional skills, and have a blast with hands-on activities.
Each session includes a social/emotional learning focus.
Weekly Meetups
Groups meet weekly on your assigned day from 3:30 – 5:30 PM at Empowering Kids.
Led By Compassionate Hosts
Our dedicated team of group leaders creates a fun, structured experience with consistency & care. We handle both transportation & activities! Children attending Perham Public Schools will be picked up directly from school.
Program Runs September 2025 – May 2026
Monthly calendars will be shared with families. Please note: sessions may be canceled due to school breaks or weather.
Previous Activities Include:
Exploring Our Community:
- Visits a dairy farm
- PACC Outings
Outdoor Adventures:
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- Creek hopping at Glendalough
- Gardening projects
- Volunteering by cleaning parks (a great way to practice self-control and responsibility)
Fun & Creative Experience:
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- Pickleball outings
- Art and baking activities
- Special guests (often providing opportunities to practice making new friends and preparing for social situations)
Heidi Solberg
Social Groups Team Lead
Karen Zepper
Social Groups Team Lead
Levi Baumgart
Support Provider
Lyvia Misegades
Support Provider
Jen Minten
NeuroCrew Team Lead
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When do groups meet?
A: Either Tuesday or Thursday each week from 3:30–5:30 PM.
Q: How will my child get to groups at 3:30 PM?
A: If your child attends Perham Public Schools, our van will pick them up each week. If not, families will need to arrange transportation.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: The cost is $125 per month, regardless of attendance. Reduced rate available with proper income documentation.
Q: How many kids are in each group?
A: We anticipate around 10 kids per group each day.
Q: Will a snack be provided?
A: Yes! Each session includes a snack and beverage. If your child has dietary needs, you’re welcome to send something with them.
Exploring the local fire station.
Enjoying the Mursu Dairy Farm in New York Mills.
Learning with DNR officer.
Brushing up our pickleball skills.
Get Started
Step 1
Contact Us
To learn more about our program or ask specific questions about your child, call or email us.
Phone – (218) 346-2322
Email – info@empoweringkidsperham.org
Step 2
Complete Paperwork
Step 3
Join Groups