Type 1 Diabetes Community Connection

Local support, in-person connection, and real-life resources for those navigating type 1 diabetes – Coming to a city near you.

How It Works

Who We’re Reaching

Touched by Type 1 will be traveling to select cities across the country to connect with:

  • Individuals living with Type 1 Diabetes

  • Parents, caregivers, and family members

  • School nurses, teachers, and support staff

  • Healthcare professionals and community advocates

These visits include school visits, local outreach, meetups, and special events—designed to foster trust, build partnerships, and provide meaningful access to T1D support and resources.

What You’ll Experience

Each Community Connection stop is customized to the community it serves. From one-on-one conversations to group learning, we’re creating spaces for connection, listening, and learning—so every person affected by T1D feels seen and supported.

Why Community Connection Exists

Every year, thousands of people hear the life-changing words: “You have Type 1 Diabetes.” For many, that diagnosis marks the beginning of an overwhelming and isolating experience.

At Touched by Type 1, we’ve spent over 25 years building a trusted support system for people with T1D—through community programs, free resources, and award-winning education. But we know that many people affected by Type 1 do not know these resources exist.

Community Connection by Touched by Type 1 was created to change that.

This ongoing initiative takes our mission beyond the screen and into local communities—meeting people face-to-face, listening to their stories, and providing direct access to the support they need most.

Support shouldn’t be something you have to search for.

What is Community Connection?

Community Connection is a no-cost, two-day program designed to meet people where they are on their type 1 diabetes journey - physically, emotionally, and personally.

Each event offers flexible, choose-your-own-experience programming for:

  • Youth living with Type 1 Diabetes

  • Adults managing T1D

  • Parents, caregivers, and teachers

Attendees are welcome to attend just one session or all of them, based on what best fits their needs.

#CommunityConnection

#CommunityConnection

Program Overview

Community Connection is built around programming that reflects the real-life experiences of people living with and caring for someone with Type 1 Diabetes. Sessions are grounded in empathy, expertise, and lived experience—thanks to the support of our national partners.

A welcoming, relaxed gathering for individuals, caregivers, and loved ones affected by T1D. This casual setting invites connection, storytelling, and the comfort of knowing you're not alone.

Community Events

Designed for adults with T1D, this session centers emotional wellness. Led by a team that understands the mental health impact of chronic illness, it offers a safe space for vulnerability, conversation, and shared support.

Mental Health Session In partnership with You’re Just My Type

Hosted live by Scott Benner, this session tackles real-life challenges of managing T1D—from daily care to complex decision-making. Scott’s honest, relatable approach helps make diabetes management more approachable for individuals and caregivers alike.

Education Session In partnership with The Juicebox Podcast

Breakout-style sessions specifically for parents and caregivers, led by those who live with T1D themselves and have cared for children with the condition. These conversations focus on practical strategies, emotional support, and the power of shared understanding.

Parenting Sessions In partnership with Type One Together

Meet Our Collaborators

Community Connection is powered by three organizations that bring unique expertise and heart to every event

You’re Just My Type – Centering emotional wellness for those living with T1D

The Juicebox Podcast – Providing real-world diabetes education and advocacy

Type One Together – Offering guidance and support to families and caregivers

Together, we’re creating experiences that reflect the full reality of life with T1D—from diagnosis to daily care.

Where We’re Headed

Community Connection is already on the road, visiting cities across the country to meet local T1D communities where they are. Our goal is to expand awareness, offer direct support, and continue building a national network of care and connection.

Want Touched by Type 1 to visit your community?

Get Involved

Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting a child, or guiding students and patients through their T1D journey—Touched by Type 1 is here for you.

Over $1 Million Raised for Type 1 Diabetes Research

Over $1 Million Raised for Type 1 Diabetes Research

World Wide Impact

World Wide Impact

Hundreds of D-Boxes Sent For FREE

Hundreds of D-Boxes Sent For FREE