Autism and Related Disabilities Gym Program, Inc.
Dear Members and Friends,
The goal and/or mission of our program is to establish a center with recreational programs for individuals with autism and related disorders where innovative ideas come together to enhance the lives of individuals and their families. To build new friendships, promote learning, community involvement, and disability awareness. Someplace where the body, mind, and spirit are supported in attaining their full potential, allowing support for the family in healing and normalizing their lives to the highest degree possible.
The Autism & Related Disabilities Gym Program, Inc. is thriving and has achieved non-profit status. Our account has been set up and we have started to receive donations.
With future resources, we would like to enhance our existing recreation program with the following activities:
- Sponsored Swim Lessons
- Fundraiser: Annual Golf Tournament
- Special Events: Dinners, BBQ, Holiday Party, Prom
We're a non-profit organization that improves lives
Field Trips
Bowling, Showcase of Citrus.
Special Events
BBQs, Holiday Party, Prom
Our mailing list comprises approximately 1650 families, who are welcome to participate whenever possible. As always, all individuals with disabilities, of all ages, and their family members are invited to attend. Although some families can only visit occasionally, everyone is always welcome to join in the fun at any time! If you would like to add your name to our mailing list for either email or postal service mail, please fill out the form provided at the bottom of this page, and you will be entered into our list.
Thank you all so much. We are looking forward to a program that will grow and benefit everyone! All donations are tax-deductible, our tax ID is #14-1899940. Please Donate for the Children so we can keep our program running, all proceeds (100%) goes to support our childern.
A Letter From the Director
I started the program in 2000 because my son Joey had just turned 15 there were no special programs available for kids that were his age. It seems like everything stops at 12 years old. I felt that I needed to be with other families that were just like mine. I asked the local recreation center if I could have one hour, one night of the week to start my own program. The Jim Beech Recreation Center granted my wish and with homemade flyers and word of mouth, we are a thriving, nonprofit organization with over 1650 families!
The Jim Beech Rec Center graciously provided me with equipment and use of the pool in the summer months with lifeguards. It is open to ALL disabilities and ALL ages!
The Winter Garden Elks Lodge #2165 kindly sponsors a free dinner for the parents every year complete with entertainment, awards, and prizes. In 2006, we started our holiday party with bouncy houses, food, music, and gifts for the kids.
We have become a support group as well. We get help from the city of Ocoee, the Winter Garden Elk’s Lodge #2165, and many local businesses.
We are looking to purchase our own building on the west side of town for our own recreation facility. We hope to have a theater room, gymnasium, pool, kitchen, horseback riding, stable for horse boarding, and on the other side we would like to have therapy rooms available for rent to generate revenue for our facility. We are looking into a workshop facility to start with. My son is now a grown man and the inspiration for the center. These kids all grow up and need a place to go for fun, work, and continuing education.
I will do all I can to make this happen, and I hope you will too!
Sincerely,
Joanne Houwers
Program Director and Joey’s Mom
Autism Gym and Related Disabilities Program, Inc.