FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 29, 2026) – Family Initiative is expanding its services in Collier County through a new partnership with NAMI Collier County, growing its presence in the Naples community. Family Initiative does not currently serve families in Naples, and this partnership fills a critical gap, bringing much-needed autism services and support directly to Collier County families. The partnership will be celebrated with a public launch luncheon on August 4, 2026, with programs and services beginning August 15. Representative Yvette Benarroch will participate in the launch event and offer remarks highlighting the importance of expanding access to autism services for Collier County families.
All Naples programming will be hosted at NAMI Collier’s location, 5025 Castello Drive, Suite 101, Naples, FL 34103.
The Naples expansion launches with both clinical services and a full slate of community-based programs, giving Collier County families access to individualized therapy along with ongoing peer and support groups.
“We’re beyond excited to bring Family Initiative’s services to Naples,” said David Brown, LCSW, President and co-founder of Family Initiative. “We have not had a presence in Naples until now, and this partnership allows us to fill a critical gap and bring much-needed autism services and support directly to Collier County families. This is about meeting families where they are and growing with the community.”
Beth Hatch CEO of NAMI Collier said, “At NAMI Collier, we know that early support and community connection can make a lasting difference in a young person’s life. We are so excited and proud to partner with Family Initiative, Inc to provide programming that empowers children and young adults, strengthens families, promotes hope, and creates opportunities for growth, belonging, and success.”
Clinical Services
- ABA Therapy — Individualized Applied Behavior Analysis for children with autism.
- Occupational Therapy — Sensory, motor, and daily-living skill support, often paired with ABA therapy.
Community-Based Programs
- Playgroup — Third Saturday of each month, ages 4 and up.
- Teen Group — Tuesday evenings, ages 14-19, offered in six-week cycles.
- Young Adult Group — Tuesday evenings, ages 20-30, offered in six-week cycles.
- Free Autism Screenings — For children ages 1-3.
This partnership brings Family Initiative’s services into Naples for the first time, filling a critical gap for families who have not had local access to these clinical services and community programs. Family Initiative said additional programming for the Naples community is planned through fall 2026.
Launch Event
The public launch event will be held August 4, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at NAMI Collier, with remarks at noon and a light lunch provided. The event will introduce the partnership and outline the programs coming to Naples.
For more information, contact Family Initiative at 239-910-0712 or info@fi-florida.org, or visit Fi-Florida.org.
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.
