Bellevue College will host a free resource fair Saturday, Oct. 17, connecting students with learning disabilities and their families to four college programs and support services.

The College Bound Resource Fair, organized by Bellevue College's Occupational and Life Skills (OLS) program, runs from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Student Success Center (U-Building) at 3000 Landerholm Circle SE. Pre-registration is required, and space is limited.

The fair is aimed at neurodiverse students considering college, along with the families and educators helping them plan that path. OLS has hosted the event since 2017.

Four college programs will present throughout the morning: OLS and Neurodiversity Navigators at Bellevue College, Achieve Highline College and Washington State University ROAR. Presentations run from 9 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. and do not repeat. Organizers urge attendees to arrive early.

A college student panel closes the schedule at 12:45 p.m.

Dr. Meg Iyer, associate dean of OLS at Bellevue College, opens the day at 9 a.m. with a talk on transitioning from an individualized education program (IEP) to college.

Erin Warner, human resources manager for the City of Kirkland, follows at 11:15 a.m. with a session on what to expect when applying for jobs and starting a first day of work.

Iyer said the fair gives students with disabilities, their families and educators a chance to explore pathways to higher education. She called Warner "a valued partner" whose presentation will address inclusive and supported employment.

OLS itself offers an associate degree for neurodiverse students with learning disabilities. The program, approved in 2006, admits a maximum of 36 students each fall. Students complete 90 credits, including an internship aligned with their career goals.

Vendors and service providers will staff tables with information on support services. A quiet space with some sensory items will be available for anyone who needs it, though organizers note it is not a fully stocked sensory room.

Limited food and beverages will be sold in the U-Building Cafe from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Organizers recommend packing a lunch. Parking is free in lots 4, 6, 1A and 3A on a first-come, first-served basis. Other adjacent lots cost $3 for the day.

To register for the fair, visit bellevuecollege.edu/ols/college-bound. Families interested in the OLS program itself can apply by the Dec. 1 priority deadline; regular applications close Feb. 1.