As a busy family with four children, two on the autism spectrum, we learned quickly that it is called autism spectrum for a reason. Therapies and supports that are standard practice and often recommended for ASD for one child, do not always work for another.
We understand the difficulties and discouragement that can arise from trying different programs and supports that may not yield the desired results. Moreover, we recognize that finding these programs and affording them can be a significant barrier to accessing these opportunities.
Born out of the idea that both of our sons’ needs were equally as important regardless of their differences, we started Equally Different Incorporated. We strive to empower families by truly understanding that each person on the autism spectrum has different but equal needs.
At Equally Different, our mission is to ensure that families and individuals touched by autism have equal opportunities within their communities, educational settings, and employment by providing practical supports that assist families "find their right fit".
At Equally Different, we believe in the inherent equality of every individual, regardless of their neurological differences.
We envision a network of supports and scholarships available to all families while they navigate the journey of finding what works for them and their family members.
Equally Different provides financial scholarships towards the cost of therapies, activities and supports for individuals on the autism spectrum not covered by health insurances.
Supports such as recreational programs, executive function tutoring, social skills camps, certified service dog cost; art and music therapies and adaptive gym memberships are all examples of eligible supports.
Eligible families must have at least one family member diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Proof of diagnosis, estimate of cost and reference letters will be required.
These scholarships are not for automobiles, vacations, medical bills, insurance, construction costs or already incurred debt.
Scholarships payments are issued directly to the service provider and use will be verified.
Seasons of Support offers support in a number of ways!
Holiday Meals
For families with autistic individuals, navigating large groups, unknown homes, and unfamiliar foods can be overwhelming and may lead to exclusion from typical holiday gatherings. We aim to provide a full holiday meal to these families, allowing them to celebrate in a safe and comfortable environment that fits their needs while they make traditions of their own.
Sensory Gifts
Equally Different takes joy in also organizing our toy distribution program for the community and school system. We curate sensory and fidget-based therapeutic toys that cater to the unique sensory needs of autistic individuals. These toys are carefully selected to support sensory exploration, creativity, and emotional regulation with out the cost on families that comes with the trial and error of finding the right fit.
Care Giver Supports
We understand that the responsibilities of caring for individuals with special needs can be emotionally and physically demanding.
We also focus on showing appreciation to the parents and caregivers who tirelessly support their loved ones with autism. Through our program, we offer special gifts, nights out and event to these caregivers, acknowledging their dedication and letting them know they are seen and valued.
Equally Different relies solely on the donations of our supporters.
We look to hold fundraising events throughout the year including lemonade stands, ice cream socials, resource fairs and local fundraisers.
These events provide the funds needed to continue to assist families like ours in their journey to " find their right fit"
Our 2023 Lemonade stands were a huge success and we hope to expand for 2024.
Scholarships and Seasons of Support programs run throughout the calendar year.
Seasons of Support grants meals for Fall/Winter/Spring and Summer holidays.
Care for the Care Givers events are recommendation based through out the year.
Please reach out to info@equallydifferentautism.org for more information on scholarships, eligibility and applying for our programs