Family Initiative Receives Life-Changing $5 Million Gift from Golisano Foundation

Family Initiative Receives Life-Changing $5 Million Gift from Golisano Foundation

Fort Myers, FL, [November 20, 2024], Family Initiative, Southwest Florida’s leading organization dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and young adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), has been awarded a $5 million gift from the Golisano Foundation. This generous contribution, part of a larger $85 million commitment to 41 Southwest Florida nonprofits, will empower Family Initiative to expand its services and launch innovative new programs, continuing to significantly impact the autism community in the region.

This gift builds on the Golisano Foundation’s previous support, which includes funding pivotal initiatives such as the creation of Thrive Academy, an innovative autism specialty school in Cape Coral. With Mr. Golisano’s ongoing generosity, Family Initiative can further its mission and extend its reach, enhancing the lives of families across Southwest Florida.

Why This Matters to Southwest Florida

Autism affects 1 in 36 children in the United States, and many families in Southwest Florida face challenges accessing comprehensive support and resources. Family Initiative has become a vital lifeline for these families, offering individualized therapies, vocational training, and community-building opportunities.

The Golisano Foundation’s gift will:

Increase Accessibility: Fund the creation of additional programs to ensure more families have access to cutting-edge interventions.

Empower Independence: Develop vocational training initiatives to prepare young adults with autism for meaningful employment.

Foster Community Connection: Expand support groups and outreach efforts to strengthen inclusivity and acceptance in the broader SWFL community.

Thanks to grants and gifts like Mr. Golisano’s, Family Initiative has recently launched several groundbreaking programs and services, including:

Sensory Trailer Deployment: Family Initiative’s Sensory Trailer is a vital resource for families affected by emergencies. This uniquely equipped trailer provides a calming environment for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) during crises such as hurricanes. Inside the trailer, children have access to sensory toys, bean bag cushions, games, air conditioning, and WiFi, while certified clinicians staff the trailer to support both children and parents. The trailer travels with essential supplies such as a generator, propane tanks, water, and over 200 sensory bags distributed during Hurricane Helene. This mobile unit ensures families can find a safe space and connect with recovery resources when needed most.

Thrive Academy Ribbon-Cutting: Recently, Family Initiative celebrated the grand opening of Thrive Academy, a private school specifically designed for children with ASD. This groundbreaking event, attended by over 100 community members, was marked by a keynote address from Speaker of the House Paul Renner and featured remarks from State Senator Jonathan Martin and State Representative Jenna Persons-Mulicka. Thrive Academy provides individualized academics, life skills training, and vocational education, equipping students with the tools to transition into adulthood with meaningful independence. Family Initiative’s vision for Thrive Academy extends beyond education, aiming to create a comprehensive autism support hub for families across Southwest Florida.

“We are completely overwhelmed by this incredibly generous contribution to our organization. We don’t have the words to adequately thank Mr. Golisano and the entire Golisano Foundation! This gift will be life-changing for so many ASD families across our community!” said Anjali Van Drie,MA, LCSW,BCBA co-founder of Family Initiative.

“Mr. Golisano’s generosity is a game-changing gift to our region. Our organization is able to immediately expand access to needed services and launch innovative new programs for the autism community. Family Initiative is incredibly grateful for this blessing,” added David Brown, LCSW, co-founder of Family Initiative.

A Brighter Future for Southwest Florida

This monumental gift ensures that Family Initiative can continue to meet the growing needs of the autism community, making SWFL a more inclusive and supportive place to live. It highlights the power of partnerships between Family Initiative and the Golisano Foundation to drive meaningful change. The contributions from the Golisano Foundation have already been instrumental in supporting critical services, including the sensory trailer and Thrive Academy, and will continue to fuel future programs that empower individuals and families affected by ASD.

For families in Southwest Florida, this gift isn’t just a milestone—it’s a promise of a brighter, more empowered future.

About Family Initiative

Established in 2015, Family Initiative is a nonprofit organization based in Cape Coral, Florida, dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and young adults diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum 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.