Lee County Government
Our partnership with Lee County Government began with a shared commitment to supporting families across the region. Together, we collaborate on Project SEARCH, creating workforce development opportunities for neurodiverse young adults. The county also works with us on emergency‑response land‑use planning, ensuring our Cape Coral property can support disaster relief and community needs. This relationship continues to expand access to autism‑informed services and strengthen the fabric of our community. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to building a county where every family has the resources they need to thrive.
Community Partnerships
Family Initiative’s work is strengthened by collaboration. Our partners help expand access to autism‑informed supports, build safer and more inclusive communities, and create meaningful opportunities for children, teens, and families. Each partnership reflects a shared commitment to compassion, innovation, and community impact.
Lee County Sheriff’s Office
Family Initiative serves as the clinical and training backbone of the Autism Support Unit, the first of its kind in Florida. Through ongoing training, consultation, and community engagement, deputies are equipped to respond safely and compassionately to autistic individuals. This partnership also includes the development and maintenance of the county’s Special Needs Database, giving first responders critical information to ensure safe, informed interactions. Together, we are creating a model for public safety agencies statewide.
Golisano Foundation
The Golisano Foundation has been a transformative partner in expanding autism services throughout Southwest Florida. Their support helped establish the Golisano Autism Community Hub, a central gathering place for clinical services, social programs, caregiver supports, and community events. This partnership continues to strengthen the continuum of care for thousands of families.
Minnesota Twins
Our collaboration with the Minnesota Twins brings inclusive, sensory‑friendly experiences to Spring Training and community events. Together, we created a state‑of‑the‑art sensory room at Hammond Stadium, offering families a calming space during games and ensuring that baseball remains accessible and enjoyable for fans of all abilities. The Twins continue to champion inclusion and accessibility for families across Southwest Florida.
Boston Red Sox
Family Initiative partners with the Boston Red Sox to expand autism‑friendly programming throughout Spring Training. This partnership includes the use of our mobile sensory trailer, providing an on‑the‑go calming environment for individuals who may become overwhelmed in busy settings. The Red Sox play an active role in making Spring Training more accessible and enjoyable for families across Southwest Florida.
United Way Partner Agency
Family Initiative is proud to be a United Way Partner Agency, joining a network of organizations dedicated to strengthening families and communities. This partnership expands access to critical supports, connects families to resources, and reinforces our mission of meeting needs with compassion and innovation.
Together, We Build Stronger Communities
Every partnership reflects a shared belief: when organizations come together with purpose, families thrive. We are grateful for the leaders, agencies, foundations, and teams who stand with us, and we look forward to continuing to grow these relationships in service of children and families across Florida.
