Shades of Autism Parent Network, Inc. is a Florida nonprofit 501(c)3 organization formed to provide peer support to diverse communities with children on the Autism Spectrum. We are an Autism family support services agency that delivers in-person/virtual peer support services, summer camps, and fun events to help families thrive in the Jacksonville, FL area.
Each parent of a child with special needs approaches their situation in their own unique way. Having the support and understanding of other parents who have walked in your shoes can provide comfort and connection. Sharing experiences, suggestions, and resources can help relieve some of the stress you may feel. Sometimes it just helps to connect with someone who wants to listen because they’ve been there. We are here to listen and learn together.
An autism diagnosis can be overwhelming for families. Parents are often unsure of the next steps to take and can spend countless hours making phone calls, researching and interviewing service providers, reviewing employer plan benefits, and trying to understand the diagnosis treatment options.
Understanding these challenges, Shades of Autism Parent Network helps families navigate the delivery system, providing meaningful consultation and valuable resources for families. We are not a medical service; rather we provide support, guidance, and advocacy for parents and caregivers of children with Autism.
We offer families valuable resources and supports, such as:
I began my journey of navigating the world of special needs parenting in October 2019 when at my son’s 3-year old annual pediatric visit, I was informed that he displayed traits of a child on the Autism Spectrum. After official diagnosis of Level 2 Autism, I began to research more about ASD, build my care planning team, leverage health insurance options, and create a financial plan to support this new reality.
Since then, I have learned how to become a formidable advocate for my son and strategies on how to structure wealth building on his behalf that will last his lifetime and beyond. I was fortunate to find resources around me to direct me on how to grow in these areas, but I didn’t see a support group that looked like me. I created Shades of Autism Parent Network, Inc to be a “safe space” for minority parents to share parenting techniques, daily frustrations, and simply be able to have fun through recreational/educational events (with and without their children).
My hope is to educate and engage a community of moms of color that often experience unique challenges in fully accessing health care and financial services for their families.
I'm a financial services professional that has held several licenses including Life/Health Insurance Agent, FINRA Registered Investment Advisor Representative, and Certified Wealth Management Specialist. I'm a member of the Association of Financial Counseling and Planning Education (AFCPE). Follow me on YouTube, you can follow our path to financial independence and special needs parenting www.youtube.com/navigatinglifewithu
As a supporting member of Shades of Autism Parent Network, you contribute to our efforts in providing needed resources to Autism parents in the Jacksonville area.
Learning that your child has Autism, Pervasive Development Disorder, or another diagnosis under the Autism Spectrum, is a life-changing event for every parent. You are faced with a multitude of decisions, and there is no one to tell you what the “right” decisions are for your child and your family.
But remember - You are not alone! The members of Shades of Autism Parent Network, Inc. understand the choices that families are faced with daily. We offer our insights, shared struggles, and welcome you to engage in fun social activities that enhances your family's life.
You can participate as a donor, member, sponsor, or volunteer.
We are seeking volunteers to join the event planning and marketing committee.
If you would to sponsor an event, please contact us at [email protected]
