Connecting Families, Creating a Community
Supporting Autism Families in the Greater Tampa Bay Area
Growing on the Spectrum is committed to supporting families with autistic children by organizing inclusive events, fostering meaningful connections and increasing community education and awareness about autism.
Our
Mission
Monthly In-person Meetups
Get together with other autism families in your area at our monthly events.
Community Awareness
We promote inclusion through autism education for businesses in the Tampa Community.
Dedicated to and inspired by Emilia, Hunter and Vihaan
Our Founders
Fiorella Perkins
Executive Director
Ashley Hoff
Operating Officer
Nidhi Kotabagi
Program Manager
About
Us
Fiorella, Ashley, and Nidhi initially connected through a Facebook group while seeking support following their children's autism diagnoses. Over time, they formed strong bonds within the Growing on the Spectrum community, both online and during our monthly meetups.
With more than two years of growth, our community now comprises of more than 200 families. Our Facebook group serves as a valuable resource, facilitating connections among caregivers, providing advice, and offering guidance on accessing crucial services such as doctors, therapy, and other resources for autistic children. Meanwhile, our meetups offer families an opportunity to forge connections and allow children to cultivate lasting friendships.
As we progress into 2024, our founders recognize the potential to expand our impact further. We are currently in the process of incorporating and securing 501c3 status in Florida. Our ongoing mission involves maintaining our meetups and moderating our Facebook group, while we also embark on an initiative to enhance community awareness. This initiative entails educating businesses on effectively accommodating autism families to foster greater inclusion and understanding within our communities.
Donate Now to Support Inclusive Autism Events
Our goal to provide low-cost or free events throughout the Tampa Bay Community
Join Our Private Facebook Group
We welcome new members who are caregivers of autistic children or those in the process of seeking a diagnosis.
Follow Us
Email Us
fiorella@growingonthespectrum.com