About Us
Autism Pensacola began serving Escambia and Santa Rosa counties in Northwest Florida in 2002. The non-profit association of parents, professionals and concerned community members is dedicated to building bridges throughout our area by supporting, advocating, educating, networking and providing hope for people affected by autism and related disorders of communication and behavior.
The goals of Autism Pensacola are:
- To educate the general public about autism
- To serve as a support group for parents and professionals
- To provide information to parents and professionals regarding the diagnosis, education and treatment of persons with autism
- To obtain better services for the citizens of the Pensacola area who are affected by autism
- To provide social opportunities for those with autism through camps and other activities
The autism group was established in May 2002 thanks to community support, especially from Susan Byram, Jacqui O’Connell, Marilyn Irby, Dr. Ben Renfroe, a well-known Pensacola child neurologist, and local agencies, such as Center for Autism and Related Disabilities and ARC Gateway.
Autism Pensacola quickly grew and in 2003 started “Kids for Camp.” Spearheaded by Judy Burns the camp turned into a significant program, which has earned national accolades. The cutting-edge, six-week program provides fun and intense learning experiences for children and training for teachers. Currently, camps are held at Pensacola Junior College and Holm Elementary School in Pensacola. Partners include Sacred Heart Hospital, Escambia and Santa Rosa county schools, Pensacola Junior College, University of West Florida, Florida State University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities and Florida Inclusion Network.
Also in 2003, Logan and Sharon Fink joined the Autism Society and organized the “North American Train Ride for Autism Awareness.” Traveling across America and Canada, the event helped to educate various groups, dignitaries, and politicians about autism and raise money.
This led to the Finks organizing the first Annual Dinner and Auction in 2004, which raised awareness and money from community leaders. The annual fundraiser sparked several other events, including a golf tournament organized by Julian Irby and Ben Gordon, walks, tennis tournaments and bike rides.
In 2006 and 2007, the additional support of prominent local business leaders, Quint and Rishy Studer and Kevin and Jenny Doyle, took the autism group to an even higher level with its fundraising and its services.
In December 2007, the association became incorporated and received its own independent non-profit status. In January 2010, the group changed its name to Autism Pensacola from Autism Society of the Panhandle to further enhance its ability to fulfill its mission to improve the lives of those living with autism along the Gulf Coast.