PROGRAMS
GiveABreak™
This is one of our core programs, which highlights our mission so succinctly. One of the most common sentiments expressed by parents of adult children with very high needs is that they are the sole care provider, with little to no relief and no end in sight. GiveABreak™ provides caregivers with an opportunity to connect with local services. We have a committee specifically designated to source local establishments that have a penchant for philanthropy.
G.R.A.P.E.S.™
Giving Resources And Products to Essential Supporters – We are extremely fortunate to receive donations of new merchandise. Our volunteers work to match products with families of low to modest means. When we receive products that aren’t the best match for our connected families, they don’t go to waste. We are still able to fundraise with them through many different channels and money raised supports other aspects of our mission.
Creative Space
Creative Space fosters an uplifting environment where creativity, social engagement, education, and expression come together to inspire and empower. Through a variety of workshops, live performances, and collaborative projects, we provide a welcoming space for individuals to learn, create, and connect, which opens doors to self-expression, growth, and community support while nurturing confidence, healing, and new meaningful opportunities.
Resources
Care Sphere does NOT provide advocacy, direct care services, or supplement income. However, we are familiar with where families may find many resources. These services already exist, and while some may be tricky to locate or obtain, we can certainly assist. Most states have publicly funded services guaranteed by legislation. We do our best to keep apprised of laws and policies that impact the world of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their caregivers.
INITIATIVES
Care-Ready: Autism Healthcare Guidance
Navigating healthcare appointments can be overwhelming for families supporting profoundly autistic, nonverbal adults—especially when behavioral challenges or communication barriers are involved. Bridging the Gap: Autism & Healthcare is an initiative by Care Sphere to bring together healthcare providers, autism specialists, and impacted families to co-create a practical, respectful guide. Our goal is to improve appointment outcomes by fostering understanding, preparation, and compassion—ensuring that the unique needs of this underserved population are recognized and met with dignity and care.
Responding with Care: Autism Training for Public Safety
Far too often, public safety personnel are called to assist families in crisis, where a severely autistic individual is overwhelmed, frightened, and in distress. Without proper training, these encounters can escalate quickly, sometimes with tragic consequences. Care Sphere’s initiative to develop targeted, real-world training for law enforcement, EMTs, and other emergency responders can help those unfamiliar with the behaviors and communication challenges associated with severe autism navigate these situations safely and effectively. Through strategic partnerships and lived-experience insight, we aim to equip those on the front lines with the tools to recognize, de-escalate, and compassionately support individuals on the profound end of the autism spectrum.
When Caregivers Break: Recognizing the Signs
Caregivers of profoundly autistic individuals often carry immense emotional, physical, and logistical burdens—quietly and without complaint. Yet behind the resilience, many are teetering on the edge of crisis. Silent Signals: Caregiver Crisis Identification & Support is Care Sphere’s initiative to raise awareness about the early signs of caregiver burnout, compassion fatigue, and emotional collapse. Through education, lived-experience insights, and resource development, this program aims to help professionals, peers, and community members recognize when a caregiver is struggling—and take meaningful action before the breaking point is reached.
Get Involved with Care Sphere
Join us in making a difference for families affected by autism. Your support can transform lives and ensure no one is alone in their journey.