Cape Coral, Fla. (October 20, 2026) Family Initiative officially introduced Thrive Academy’s campus expansion with a ribbon cutting ceremony, heartfelt speeches from families about Thrive Academy’s impact, and tours of the newly expanded Southwest Florida private school for students with autism.
On Tuesday, October 20, 2026, close to 70 guests gathered in attendance for the unveiling of the school, including Thrive Academy students and their families, faculty, as well as Family Initiative leadership, staff, clinicians, elected officials, and community partners. Family Initiative Co-founders David Brown and Anjali Van Drie welcomed guests with warm remarks about Thrive Academy’s journey, the once incredible dream now a lifestyle for hundreds of families that walk through those doors. Guest speakers included Senator Jonathan Martin, Lee County Supervisor of Elections Jenna Persons-Mulicka, Representative Mike Giallombardo, and President of Stevens Construction, Mark Stevens, alongside parents and Family Initiative board members who shared personal stories about the Academy’s impact.
Also during the ceremony, Scott Rossi, General Manager of Fred Anderson Toyota of Cape Coral, presented Family Initiative with a check through the dealership’s Drive for a Difference community outreach campaign.
This expansion increases Thrive Academy’s enrollment capacity, while also creating additional space for services that extend beyond the classroom. In addition to housing Thrive Academy, the newly renovated building welcomes children and families from the community who receive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Occupational Therapy (OT) services, as well as partake in Family Initiative’s community-based programs. These services are open and available to children and families throughout the community, including those who are not enrolled at Thrive Academy. Kim Verblaauw, Principal of Thrive Academy, added, “Our students deserve an environment built intentionally for them, one that honors their strengths, supports their challenges, and empowers their independence. This expansion allows us to welcome more
learners, deepen our therapeutic supports, and continue creating a school where every child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.”
Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, guests were given the opportunity to tour the expanded campus, including its sensory-friendly building features dedicated to each student’s needs. David Brown, President and Co-founder shared, “This expansion is more than a building, it’s a promise. It allows Thrive Academy to grow with our students from kindergarten all the way through 12th grade. Every classroom, every sensory-friendly space, every detail reflects our commitment to walking alongside families. Thrive Academy began as a dream to create a place where children on the autism spectrum are understood, supported, and celebrated. Today, that dream continues to grow, and we are honored to stand with the families who make this community what it is.”
About Thrive Academy
Founded in 2022, Thrive was first structured as a private microschool. In 2024, the entire campus was purchased and underwent expansion renovations to hold the growing number of students, teachers, and staff. Thrive Academy is a private school dedicated to providing a structured, supportive, and inclusive learning environment where students with autism spectrum disorder can grow academically, socially, emotionally, and independently. Behavioral support is wrapped around every student, and Thrive focuses on building independence and communication, while incorporating real-world skills beyond the classroom. For more information, visit www.thriveacademyfl.org or call 239-994-0095. Follow Thrive Academy on Facebook, Instagram, and X at (formerly Twitter) at @ThriveAcademyfl.
About Family Initiative
Established in 2015, Family Initiative is a nonprofit organization based in Cape Coral, Florida, dedicated to supporting children, teens, and young adults impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through innovative programs and evidence-based therapies. Family Initiative provides clinical services, educational programs, and community support, empowering individuals and families across Southwest Florida. Through its private specialty school, Thrive Academy, Family Initiative offers a unique, individualized educational experience focused on academic achievement and vocational training. In addition to autism services, Family Initiative provides training and support for child welfare caregivers. To learn more, visit FI-Florida.org or call 239-910-0712.
Family Initiative and Thrive Academy supporters, clinicians, staff, and Southwest Florida families attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for Thrive Academy private school expansion.
Scott Rossi, General Manager, Fred Anderson Toyota of Cape Coral presents check
David Brown and Anjali Van Drie, Family Initiative Co-Founders
First Time Look – supporters taking a tour of the renovated building
Mark Stevens, President of Stevens Construction, Inc. speaking on Thrive Academy’s expansion journey
Lee County Supervisor of Elections Jenna Persons-Mulicka & Representative Mike Giallombardo
