Family Initiative raises over $300,000 at 2022 Autism Acceptance Awards Gala
Family Initiative’s 2022 Autism Acceptance Awards Gala raised over $300,000, far surpassing the goal of $200,000, to provide family-centered compassionate support, innovative programs and evidence-based therapies to children, teens and young adults impacted by autism spectrum disorder.
The annual celebration was held at the culmination of Autism Acceptance Month on April 30 at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center & Amphitheater in downtown Fort Myers, featuring dinner, live and silent auctions and an awards presentation.
Family Initiative’s annual Autism Acceptance Awards Gala recognizes and celebrates the everyday champions of the autism spectrum disorder community and their tireless efforts to promote inclusion, education and empowerment for the ASD community and beyond.
Honorees included:
n The Champion Award was received by Florida State Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka who has advocated fiercely over the years to bring change for families across Florida on a legislative and local level.
n The Believer Award was presented to Cliff Smith for his commitment to volunteering his knowledge, experience and resources to support the autism community.
n The Partner Award was given to Kim Verblaauw from Gulf Elementary School for her efforts to provide opportunities for students on the spectrum to have the same experiences as their peers to create an inclusive environment that serves as a model across the county.
n The Dylan Award was presented to ASD mom and Lee County teacher Rhona Ranier. Her advocacy for students, children and families on the spectrum all while wearing the hats of an educator, autism mom and fellow autism parent is an inspiration to the community.
Proceeds from the Autism Acceptance Awards Gala will directly support children and families on Family Initiative’s waiting list, the hiring of certified clinicians and free or low cost community services to help children on the autism spectrum thrive. The nonprofit organization offers social skills programs, clinical services and community education for children and families in Southwest Florida.
Established in 2015, Family Initiative, Inc. is a Florida-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to supporting children with autism and strengthening their families. Its team of clinicians serves children from compassionate, personalized approach through Applied Behavior Analysis and Occupational Therapy services, and offers autism play groups, teen meetings, parent education, community conversations and more. In addition, the organization provides child welfare caregiver training and support through its Family Impact Program. Visit FI-Florida.org or find Family Initiative on Facebook and Instagram at @FamilyInitiative and on Twitter at @FI_Inc.
To learn more about Family Initiative, the services they offer and their work in the community, visit FI-Florida.org or call 239-910-0712.