Family Resources
We know that families play a vital role in every child’s progress. This resource page is here to offer helpful tools, guidance, and information—whether you’re just getting started or looking for ways to stay involved.
National Organiztions & Resources
Autism Society of America (ASA)
Connects families with local support through affiliates, provides advocacy and educational resources, and hosts inclusive events across the U.S.
https://autismsociety.org
Autism Speaks
Offers toolkits, a parent hotline, community events, and guidance for families navigating an autism diagnosis or life transitions.
National Autism Association (NAA)
Provides safety toolkits, communication device grants, and training for caregivers to address real-world safety and support needs.
https://nationalautismassociation.org
Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
A nonprofit led by autistic adults focused on self-advocacy, disability rights, and inclusive resources for families and communities.
https://autisticadvocacy.org
American Autism Association (AAA)
Supports families through recreational programs, sibling and parent education, and a national helpline for autism-related questions.
https://www.myautism.org
Mississippi Resources
TEAAM Autism
Hosts inclusive events and the annual Kamp Kaleidoscope, providing safe, fun spaces for Mississippi families and children with autism.
https://www.teaam.org
Mississippi Families as Allies
Parent-led group offering peer support, advocacy training, and a help line for navigating education, healthcare, and disability systems.
MS Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities
Coordinates training and policy advocacy, and offers parent information centers and events like the statewide disAbility MegaConference.
https://www.msccd.org
Mississippi Department of Mental Health – IDD Services
Provides respite care, community supports, and Medicaid-funded services for families caring for individuals with autism or developmental disabilities.
https://www.dmh.ms.gov/service-options/intellectual-developmental-disabilities
Project START
A statewide program helping families access assistive technology, including speech devices and sensory tools for children with autism.
https://www.msprojectstart.org
Local Organizations & Resources
The Stevie Foundation for Autism
Gulf Coast nonprofit hosting inclusive family events, such as sensory-friendly celebrations and autism awareness programs for the community.
Sensory Sundays – Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
Monthly sensory-friendly museum hours in Gulfport offer a calm, welcoming environment for children with autism and their families.
Ocean Springs Municipal Library
Offers occasional sensory storytimes, educational events, and inclusive programming for families with children on the autism spectrum.
Embrace Abilities
Family-led nonprofit on the Mississippi Gulf Coast dedicated to creating inclusive spaces where children and teens with developmental differences can connect, grow, and thrive. Through free community events and caregiver support, they empower families while promoting awareness, acceptance, and lasting change.
https://embraceabilitiesms.org/