Building a Support Network
Navigating autism doesn't have to be a solo journey. South Florida has a vibrant community of organizations, support groups, and resources dedicated to helping families affected by autism. From local nonprofits to national advocacy organizations, there are people and programs ready to support you at every step.
Below you'll find a curated collection of trusted resources — both local to the Miami and South Florida area and national organizations with programs that serve our community.
Local Autism Organizations
Organizations serving families in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.
The Dan Marino Foundation
Founded by NFL legend Dan Marino and his wife Claire, this South Florida-based foundation provides programs for young adults with autism and developmental disabilities, including vocational training, social skills development, and their renowned Marino Campus.
Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL | Website: danmarinofoundation.org
The UM-NSU Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD)
A state-funded resource providing free information, consultation, and training to individuals with autism and their families. CARD serves Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe counties and offers workshops, support groups, and direct consultation at no cost.
Serving: Miami-Dade, Broward, Monroe Counties | Website: card.miami.edu
Autism Society of Florida — Greater Miami Chapter
The local chapter of the Autism Society of America provides advocacy, support groups, community events, and resource navigation for families throughout the Greater Miami area. They host regular parent meetups and informational workshops.
Serving: Greater Miami Area | Website: autismsocietyoffl.org
🎨 The Friendship Circle of Miami
Provides social programs, recreational activities, and friendship opportunities for children and teens with special needs. Their volunteer teen buddy program pairs typically developing teens with individuals with autism for weekly activities and social engagement.
Location: Miami, FL | Website: friendshipcirclemiami.com
🏊 Florida Autism Center of Excellence (FACE)
Offers therapeutic recreation programs including adaptive swimming, martial arts, art therapy, and social skills groups for children and teens with autism in the South Florida community.
Serving: South Florida | Programs: Adaptive recreation & therapeutic activities
Parent & Family Support Groups
Connect with other families who understand your journey.
CARD Parent Support Groups
Free monthly support groups hosted by the Center for Autism & Related Disabilities, available in English and Spanish. Topics rotate monthly and include navigating insurance, school advocacy, managing behaviors, and self-care for parents.
🌐Online Communities
Facebook groups like "Autism Parents of South Florida" and "Miami Autism Families" connect thousands of local parents for advice, resource sharing, and emotional support. Many groups are bilingual (English/Spanish).
👦Sibling Support
Programs like Sibshops (offered through various local organizations) provide support and activities specifically for siblings of children with autism and other special needs.
Community Events
Sensory-friendly events at local museums, movie theaters, and parks are regularly organized by organizations like CARD, Autism Speaks, and local parent groups. Check community calendars for upcoming events.
Florida State Resources
State-funded programs and services for families affected by autism.
Early Steps (Early Intervention Program)
Florida's early intervention program for children birth to 36 months with developmental delays. Provides free evaluation, service coordination, and therapies including ABA. No diagnosis required for referral.
Phone: 1-800-218-0001 | Website: floridahealth.gov/early-steps
Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD)
The state agency that manages the iBudget Florida waiver program, providing home and community-based services for individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism. Services include respite care, behavioral services, supported employment, and more.
Phone: 1-866-273-2273 | Website: apd.myflorida.com
Florida Department of Education — ESE
The Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services (BEESS) provides resources for parents navigating the special education system, including parent guides, dispute resolution services, and information about your child's rights under IDEA.
Phone: (850) 245-0475 | Website: fldoe.org/academics/exceptional-student-edu
National Autism Resources
Leading national organizations with resources, research, and advocacy.
Autism Speaks
The largest autism science and advocacy organization in the U.S. Provides a comprehensive resource guide, First Concern to Action toolkit, 100 Day Kit for newly diagnosed families, and the Autism Response Team (ART) helpline. They fund research and advocate for insurance coverage and policy changes.
ART Helpline: 1-888-288-4762 | Website: autismspeaks.org
♾️ Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
A national advocacy organization run by and for autistic people. ASAN promotes the "Nothing About Us Without Us" philosophy and provides resources on civil rights, healthcare access, and self-determination for autistic individuals. Their plain-language guides on topics like healthcare and employment are highly valued.
Website: autisticadvocacy.org
CDC — Autism Spectrum Disorder
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides the latest research data on autism prevalence, developmental milestone checklists, the "Learn the Signs. Act Early." campaign materials, and free screening tools for parents and healthcare providers.
Website: cdc.gov/autism | Milestones App: Free on iOS/Android
Autism Society of America
The nation's oldest autism organization, founded in 1965. Provides a National Helpline (1-800-328-8476), local chapter networks including the Florida chapter, resource directories, and advocacy for policy changes at the state and federal level.
Helpline: 1-800-328-8476 | Website: autismsociety.org
🔬 Organization for Autism Research (OAR)
Funds applied research and provides practical resources for families, educators, and individuals on the spectrum. Their free resource guides — including "A Parent's Guide to Autism," "Life Journey Through Autism," and guides for educators — are available for download.
Website: researchautism.org
National Autism Association (NAA)
Focuses on autism safety, advocacy, and family support. Known for their Big Red Safety Box program (free safety resources for families of children who wander) and the Helping Hand family grant program that provides funding for autism-related needs.
Website: nationalautismassociation.org
Important Phone Numbers
Keep these numbers handy for information and support.
- American Institute of Mental Health: (786) 652-6945
- Autism Speaks ART Helpline: 1-888-288-4762 (English & Spanish)
- Autism Society National Helpline: 1-800-328-8476
- Florida Early Steps: 1-800-218-0001
- Florida Medicaid Helpline: 1-877-254-1055
- Agency for Persons with Disabilities: 1-866-273-2273
- 211 Helpline (United Way): Dial 2-1-1 for local social services and referrals
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 9-8-8 for mental health crisis support