April is National Autism Awareness Month, a time to encourage understanding, foster inclusion, and support individuals and families navigating autism in our community.

Awareness is an important starting point, but real support often begins with access to trusted local resources. For families in Naples, Collier County, Fort Myers, and across Southwest Florida, there are organizations and programs nearby that offer guidance, education, connection, and practical support.

One of the most helpful local starting points is the Autism Collier Resource Center in Naples. Autism Collier describes itself as a resource hub connecting families with support, services, educational advocacy, events, and community resources. The organization also provides contact information for families who may be looking for next steps or local guidance.

Another strong resource for Southwest Florida families is Family Initiative, which has a Fort Myers location at 4050 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33966. Family Initiative says its Autism Support Center, opened in March 2021, is Southwest Florida’s first facility dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by autism spectrum disorder. The Fort Myers office lists (239) 910-0712 as its contact number.

For families looking for help after a diagnosis, Lee Health’s Autism Navigator is another valuable local resource. Lee Health explains that its autism navigator supports families free of charge, offers phone consultations, and provides a resource directory with everything from therapy services to everyday family support options. Lee Health also notes that the navigator helps families from diagnosis through adolescence.

In Collier County, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office Autism Support Project serves as a local support resource for families, schools, therapy groups, hospitals, and the broader community. The Sheriff’s Office says the program provides referral resources, suggestions, and education for parents, caregivers, businesses, and residents.

Families looking for more local options can also explore the broader resource sections on Autism Collier’s website, which include information related to screenings, evaluations, therapy and support services, family and caregiver support, and autism-friendly events in Collier County. These kinds of directories can be especially helpful for families who are unsure where to begin or who are searching for multiple forms of support in one place.

At the local level, even sharing a resource can make a difference. National Autism Awareness Month is a meaningful reminder that stronger communities are built through understanding, inclusion, and practical support. Whether someone is seeking answers, services, community connection, or simply a place to start, Southwest Florida families do have local organizations available to help.

Local Southwest Florida Autism Resources

Autism Collier Resource Center
Naples, Florida
239-595-1971

Family Initiative, Fort Myers
4050 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33966
239-910-0712

Lee Health Autism Navigator
Support for families from diagnosis through adolescence, including consultations and a resource directory.

Collier County Sheriff’s Office Autism Support Project
Community support, referrals, and education for families and caregivers in Collier County.