01
Empowerment
First Responder Education
Specialized training for law enforcement and emergency services so every interaction with an autistic person in our community is safe, calm, and supportive.
Bartow County, GA · Est. 2024
Elevate Autism brings advocacy, education, and a supportive community together so autistic adults in Bartow County, and soon all of North Georgia, can move through the world safely and with confidence.
Three pillars
Empower · Connect · Protect
- Know your rights
- Own your space
- Empowerment
- Connection
- Protection
- Autism is not something you outgrow
What we do
Everything we do rolls up to three commitments: empowering the people who serve autistic adults, connecting autistic adults with each other, and protecting their safety every day.
02
Connection
Community Events
Social gatherings, workshops, and recreation that celebrate neurodiversity and help autistic adults build real, lasting friendships.
03
Protection
Safety Resources
Accessible tools for everyday safety, including sensory-friendly kits and practical guides for moving through public spaces with confidence.
Get the 911 Safety FormComing soon
Caleb
The reason we started
Our story
It started with one misunderstanding.
Our founder Mandy's son Caleb is an autistic adult. A few years ago, a stressful encounter with law enforcement turned into a misunderstanding that changed their family's life. The charges were eventually dismissed, but the experience showed how easily autistic communication can be misread in a tense moment.
That moment became a mission. Elevate Autism exists to build safer, more understanding communities through education, compassion, and collaboration, so the next encounter ends with everyone going home safe.
“Autism is not something you outgrow.”
Our mission
We believe informed support leads to safer, more inclusive places for everyone. Here is how we are putting that belief to work.
- 1
Community Partnerships
Working alongside local schools to bring resources, supplies, and support into special needs classrooms.
- 2
Advocacy in Action
Engaging policymakers so families have better access to the services autistic adults need.
- 3
A Vision for Growth
Starting in Bartow County, then expanding workshops and trainings across North Georgia and beyond.
In the community
Real change happens when families, first responders, and local leaders sit at the same table.
Upcoming events
Bowling nights, support groups, and community festivals. There is a seat for you.
Nov13Fri
Sip, Socialize & Support
Friday, November 13
An autism awareness and benefit night with great wine, cocktails, live music, and a silent auction. Register before November 12 and your first drink is on us ($15 limit). Proceeds fund adult autism safety programs, first responder training, and community outreach.
- 6:00 to 8:00 PM
- Elevate, Cartersville, GA
Monthly1stWed
First Wednesday of every month
Spectrum Social Club: Bowling Night
A monthly social night for neurodivergent adults 16 and up. Come bowl, make friends, and have fun in a supportive space where everyone belongs.
Monthly2ndWed
Second Wednesday of every month
Parent Support Group
An encouraging space for parents and caregivers of neurodivergent adults to share experiences, swap resources, and remember that you are not alone.
Our board
Parents, a 33-year police department veteran, a special education leader, and community builders, all working toward the same goal.
- Know your rights
- Own your space
- Empowerment
- Connection
- Protection
- Autism is not something you outgrow
Help us fill patrol cars
Imagine an autistic child or adult who is frightened, overwhelmed, or unable to communicate during an encounter with law enforcement. Now imagine the officer reaching for a sensory bag filled with items that bring comfort and ease the overload. That is the difference we want to make, and we can't do it without our community.
Can't buy an item? Sharing helps just as much. You never know who might see it.
Buy one item, or ten
Pick anything from our Amazon Wish List. Every item goes into a bag.
We pack the sensory bags
Comfort items that can ease sensory overload and help someone feel safe.
Officers carry them on patrol
Ready to hand over in someone's most overwhelming moment.
New collection
Every shirt and accessory in our shop funds programs for autistic adults in our community.
“Every autistic adult deserves a community that speaks their language and celebrates their unique rhythm.”
Mandy, Founder of Elevate Autism
100% of every gift goes to the mission
Your donation, made securely through Zeffy, funds first responder education, community events, and safety resources for autistic adults. One-time and monthly giving are both available.