Business Details
26 Years
experience
Autism & Related Disabilities Gym Program in Orlando
Founded in 2000, our program was created to address the lack of recreational opportunities for adolescents with autism and related disabilities. Recognizing the critical need for continued support beyond childhood, we established a community-driven initiative focused on fostering social connections, promoting learning, and enhancing quality of life for individuals and families. Partnering with the Jim Beech Recreation Center, we gained access to essential facilities while building a network of 1,650 participating families. Our organization has successfully implemented annual events like the Golf Tournament fundraiser and holiday celebrations, while maintaining tax-deductible donation status under ID #14-1899940.We operate as both a recreational hub and support group, collaborating with local entities including the Winter Garden Elks Lodge #2165 and City of Ocoee. Current expansion plans aim to establish a dedicated facility featuring therapy spaces, recreational areas, and vocational workshops to serve adults with disabilities. Our leadership combines personal experience with professional execution, ensuring programs remain free through strategic partnerships and community support.
Services
Recreational Programs
Swim Lessons
Special Events
Field Trips
Fundraising Activities
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We have operated continuously since 2000 with proven community impact
- Our programs serve all ages with inclusive recreational opportunities
- We maintain tax-deductible status for donor contributions
- We partner with local government and established organizations
- Our leadership combines personal experience with professional execution
Services
Recreational Programs
Weekly recreational sessions provide structured social interaction for individuals with autism and related disabilities. Activities include gym access, pool time, and group games designed to improve motor skills and social development. Programs operate year-round with seasonal variations in activity offerings.
Swim Lessons
Specialized swimming instruction conducted at partner facilities with trained lifeguards. Lessons focus on water safety, basic swimming skills, and sensory integration through aquatic therapy techniques. Available exclusively to program members during designated hours.
Special Events
Annual celebrations including holiday parties, prom nights, and family dinners foster community connections. Events feature entertainment, awards, and age-appropriate activities for participants of all ability levels. Fundraising components support program sustainability.
Field Trips
Organized excursions to local attractions like bowling alleys and citrus showcases provide real-world experiences. Trips include necessary accommodations and sensory-friendly modifications to ensure accessible participation for all attendees.
Fundraising Activities
Annual Golf Tournament and donation drives generate operating funds while raising disability awareness. Contributions directly support program operations, facility development, and special event costs. Tax-deductible donations maintain program accessibility.
People
Joanne Houwers
Program Director
Founder of the program since 2000, Joanne combines personal experience as a parent of an autistic adult with community leadership to develop inclusive recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Questions
How are donations used by the organization?
100% of donations fund program operations including facility rentals, activity supplies, and future facility development. Tax ID #14-1899940 ensures contributions remain tax-deductible.
What age groups participate in the program?
Our services accommodate all ages, with primary participants ranging from children through young adults. Activities adapt to different developmental levels while maintaining inclusive environments.
How can families join the program?
Families can join by completing the mailing list form on our website. Participation remains free through community partnerships and donor support.
What volunteer opportunities exist?
Volunteers assist with events, activity supervision, and administrative tasks. Contact us directly to discuss current volunteer needs and orientation processes.
What are future development plans?
We aim to establish a dedicated facility featuring therapy rooms, recreational spaces, and vocational workshops to serve adults with disabilities beyond traditional program age limits.
