in Northeast Florida
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Welcome to our
Special Needs Resource Hub
for Northeast Florida
scroll down for resources
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Publisher & MomWhat many may not know is that, in addition to being a publisher, I’m also the mother of a child with severe Autism. For the past 21 years, our journey has been filled with challenges, lessons, and moments of deep resilience.
The day I heard the words, “Your son has Autism,” my world shifted. Jake was just two years old, and I was overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty. Autism is a complex condition, with no single cause or clear roadmap for treatment, and our family was thrust into an unknown world of therapies, specialists, and tough decisions. From biomedical interventions and neurology visits to ABA therapy and play-based approaches, we’ve explored it all—always searching for the best path forward for Jake. Every child is unique, and as families move through the ever-changing stages of life—early interventions, school transitions, and the shift into adulthood—their needs evolve. Navigating these challenges requires access to the right information, yet so often, families feel isolated, struggling to find the resources that could make all the difference. Years ago, Autism was rarely talked about, but thanks to grassroots efforts and increased awareness, that’s changing. Still, there’s more work to do. My hope is that this resource magazine becomes a guiding light for families, helping them find the support they need at every stage of their journey. If you have information or resources that could benefit families in our community, please reach out. Let’s work together to make sure no one has to walk this path alone. 📩 Email [email protected] |
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A Magazine
focused on Autism Resources
Check out the flip Book
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A few years back we created this handy little resource guide for families who have a child with autism called The Northeast Florida Autism Resource Guide.
But now, in 2025 I have decided to expand this to include all children and adults with special needs. Resources are often out there but families don't always know where to turn to find them. |
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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that affects individuals uniquely, influencing how they perceive the world and interact with others. Our mission is to provide a comprehensive, compassionate, and accessible resource for those seeking information, support, and community related to autism.
Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, individual on the spectrum, or simply someone wanting to learn more, this site offers valuable insights and tools to understand and navigate the diverse experiences of autism. We hope to foster awareness, acceptance, and inclusion.
Join us in celebrating neurodiversity and supporting every individual's journey on the spectrum. Together, we can build a more understanding and inclusive world for all.
Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, individual on the spectrum, or simply someone wanting to learn more, this site offers valuable insights and tools to understand and navigate the diverse experiences of autism. We hope to foster awareness, acceptance, and inclusion.
Join us in celebrating neurodiversity and supporting every individual's journey on the spectrum. Together, we can build a more understanding and inclusive world for all.
Collected Online Resources
Here’s a collection of valuable resources online to help parents and caregivers plan for the future, create a safe home environment, and explore opportunities for individuals with disabilities.If you know of a resource that would be helpful to families, please feel free to email me directly at [email protected].
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Therapy & Behavioral Support
🔹 Sprout & ABA Therapy – Providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to help children with autism develop essential life skills. 🔹 UF Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (UF CARD) – Providing individualized consultation, training, and resources for people with autism. Health & Early Development 🔹 Early Learning Coalition of Jacksonville – Helping families access early childhood education and developmental resources. Education & Schools 🔹 HEAL Autism Now – Supporting educational programs and therapy for children with autism. 🔹 Jacksonville School for Autism – A private school specializing in individualized autism education. Recreation & Social Opportunities 🔹 Surfers for Autism – Surf therapy programs that provide children with autism a fun and supportive environment. 🔹 Brain Balance Jacksonville – A non-medical program designed to help children with learning and behavioral challenges. 🔹 Sesame Street & Autism – Engaging and educational resources promoting autism awareness and acceptance. Life Skills & Transitions 🔹 Moving with Children with Disabilities – Tips and advice for easing the transition when relocating with a special needs child. 🔹 Traveling with Kids with Autism – Strategies for a smoother travel experience with children on the spectrum. 🔹 Renters’ Rights for People with Disabilities – Understanding legal protections and housing rights for individuals with disabilities. 🔹 Managing Your Child’s Transition to Adulthood – Guidance on preparing teens with autism for independent living and career paths. 🔹 Guide to Remodeling a Home for Adults with Special Needs – Adapting living spaces to improve accessibility and comfort for individuals with disabilities 🔹 Butterfly Effects Founded in 2005, Butterfly Effects (BE) is a trusted provider of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for families affected by autism. Initially serving U.S. military dependents through Tricare, we’ve expanded to 12 states to meet the growing needs of families. Our family-centered approach focuses on personalized care, delivering evidence-based ABA interventions to create meaningful change. Led by experienced BCBAs, including our President with over 25 years of expertise, we are committed to empowering families and improving lives. 
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Safety & Well-Being
🔹 Keeping Your Child with Autism Safe – Expert safety tips for protecting children with autism at home and in the community. 🔹 Autism & Sleep: A Guide from Mattress Advisor – Strategies for improving sleep quality and establishing healthy bedtime routines for children with autism. Home & Environment 🔹 Designing the Perfect Home Playroom for Children with Autism – Tips for creating a sensory-friendly play space tailored to your child’s unique needs. Legal & Life Planning 🔹 Children with Special Needs Planning Guide – Assistance with legal matters, including transitioning to adulthood, guardianship, SSI benefits, and more. 🔹Disability Advice Disability Advice is dedicated to empowering individuals through every step of the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims process. We understand the challenges that come with applying for SSDI benefits and are here to provide expert guidance and unwavering support. Our team is comprised of knowledgeable advocates who are passionate about assisting disabled individuals and simplifying what can often feel like an overwhelming system. With our expertise and compassionate approach, we aim to make Social Security work for you. Support & Guidance 🔹 A Guide for Families of Children with Autism – A comprehensive resource for navigating the autism journey (not Florida-specific but highly valuable). Travel & Daily Life 🔹 Navigating a Long Car Ride with a Special Needs Child – Practical advice to make road trips more comfortable and enjoyable for children with sensory challenges. Financial & Future Planning 🔹 Financial Planning for Parents of Children With Learning Disabilities – Guidance on managing finances, securing future care, and accessing financial assistance programs. Home & Safety 🔹 Guide to Creating a Safe Home for Children With Disabilities – Essential home modifications and safety tips to create a secure, accessible environment. 🔹 Special Needs Checklist: How Disability-Friendly Is Your City? – Evaluate your city’s accessibility, services, and support networks for individuals with disabilities. Transportation & Mobility 🔹 Guide to Driving With a Child Who Has a Disability – Tips for safe and comfortable travel, including adaptive car equipment and sensory-friendly solutions. Education & Employment 🔹 Vocational Training for Adults With Special Needs – Explore career training programs and job opportunities designed for individuals with disabilities. |
Local Resources
by Category
Below
AUTISM & SPECIAL NEEDS
RESOURCE LIST
Resources Available in Specifically in Northeast Florida
General Helpful Resources,
Support Groups & Foundations
Below is a list of organizations dedicated to providing services, support, and opportunities for individuals with special needs and their families in the Northeast Florida area.
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UF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) Jacksonville
📍 6271 St. Augustine Road, Suite 1, Jacksonville, FL 32217 📞 1-800-9-AUTISM 🔗 Website McKay Scholarship Program 📍 325 W. Gaines St., Suite 522, Tallahassee, FL 32399 📞 800-447-1636 🔗 Website Great Strides Rehabilitation Center 📍 12276 San Jose Blvd., Suite 508, Jacksonville, FL 32223 📞 786-205-5498 CARD – Center for Autism and Related Disorders 📞 904-633-0760 📌 Ongoing Support Groups Available |
First Coast Autism Support
🤝 Connecting families raising children with ASD to share ideas and support one another. Mandarin Counseling 📍 12058 San Jose Blvd, #703, Jacksonville, FL 32223 📞 904-260-0454 https://www.mandarincounseling.com/ 👩💼 Tammy Kacmarynski – Advocate, Mentor & Coach 📌 Teen Aspie Educational & Social Group Puzzle Peace Consulting 📍 5270 Palm Valley Road, Ponte Vedra, FL 32082 📞 904-607-2834 👩⚕️ Janeen Herskovitz – Licensed Therapist 🔗 Website 
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Doctors & TherapistsBehavioral Health & Therapy Services 🔹 Beacon Pediatric Behavioral Health
🔹 Bloom Behavioral Solutions
🔹 Pediatric Behavioral Services, LLC
Hearing & Early Intervention Services 🔹 Pediatric Hearing Program – Early Steps Program
Neurology & Diagnostic Services 🔹 Dr. Carlos Gama, MD – Pediatric Neurologist
🔹 Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System (FDLRS)
Dentists
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Adult Education
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Fun Opportunities
This list connects individuals with disabilities and their families to inclusive sports
and recreational opportunities in Northeast Florida
and recreational opportunities in Northeast Florida
- Special Olympics Florida - Duval County: Offering a variety of sports training and competition opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. PO Box 49008, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32240. Phone: 904-307-422. Website: https://specialolympicsflorida.org/duval/ (Description: Provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.)
- Jacksonville Miracle League: Providing a chance for every child to play baseball, regardless of their abilities. Brantly Park, 8435 118th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32244. Website: http://jacksonvillemiracleleague.org/ (Description: Offers children with physical and/or intellectual disabilities the opportunity to play baseball in a supportive and accessible environment. The league uses a specially designed field and provides buddies to assist players.)
- Surfers for Autism: Introducing children with autism to the joy of surfing. Website: www.surfersforautism.org/ (Description: Provides free surfing events for children with autism, creating a fun and therapeutic experience while promoting acceptance and inclusion.)
- Best Buddies Jacksonville: Creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
(IDD). 4130 Salisbury Rd Suite 2200, Jacksonville, FL 32216. Website: www.bestbuddies.org/florida/ (Description: Establishes one-to-one friendships between people with and without IDD, creating a more inclusive and accepting world.)
Pharmacies
Specialized pharmacies in our community
A1A Pharmacy
📍 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
📞 904-373-0835
🌍 Website
💡 A locally owned pharmacy offering personalized medication services,
prescription refills, and specialty compounding to meet individual patient needs.
Smart Pharmacy
📍 14003 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
📞 904-503-5030
🌍 Website
💡 Provides customized medication solutions, prescription refills,
and home delivery services with a focus on patient care and convenience.
WELLhealthRx Pharmacy
📍 12276-707 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223
📞 904-880-1660
🌍 Website
💡 Specializes in compounded medications, wellness products,
and personalized pharmaceutical care to enhance health and well-being.
📍 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
📞 904-373-0835
🌍 Website
💡 A locally owned pharmacy offering personalized medication services,
prescription refills, and specialty compounding to meet individual patient needs.
Smart Pharmacy
📍 14003 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
📞 904-503-5030
🌍 Website
💡 Provides customized medication solutions, prescription refills,
and home delivery services with a focus on patient care and convenience.
WELLhealthRx Pharmacy
📍 12276-707 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223
📞 904-880-1660
🌍 Website
💡 Specializes in compounded medications, wellness products,
and personalized pharmaceutical care to enhance health and well-being.
Independent Living , Transitions
Navigating the world with special needs can be challenging. These helpful resources offer guidance and support for various aspects of life, from housing to vocational training.
- Renters' Rights for People with Disabilities: Learn about your rights as a renter with a disability, including reasonable accommodations and accessibility requirements. Renters Rights for People with Disabilities
- Managing Your Child’s Transition to Adulthood: This guide provides valuable information and resources to help families navigate the often-complex process of transitioning a child with special needs into adulthood. Managing Your Child’s Transition to Adulthood
- Guide to Remodeling a Home for Adults with Special Needs: Discover helpful tips and considerations for remodeling a home to make it more accessible and comfortable for adults with special needs. Guide to Remodeling a Home for Adults with Special Needs
- Special Needs Checklist: How Disability-Friendly is Your City?: Use this checklist to evaluate the accessibility and inclusivity of your city for individuals with special needs. Special Needs Checklist: How Disability-Friendly is Your City?
- Vocational Training for Adults with Special Needs: Explore resources and programs that offer vocational training and job placement assistance for adults with special needs. vocational Training for Adults with Special Needs
Schools, Education & Classes
Discover trusted schools, therapy centers, and specialized programs in Jacksonville and St. Augustine
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Specialized Schools & Learning Centers
Broach School 📍 Multiple Locations: Jacksonville Beach, Orange Park, and Terry Road 📞 904-247-7288 💡 ESA-approved schools offering services for children on the autism spectrum. Great Strides Rehabilitation/Pediatric Enrichment Center 📍 12276 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32083 📞 904-288-8910 💡 Developmental preschool supporting children with special needs. Greenwood School 📍 9920 Regency Square Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 📞 904-726-5000 💡 Serving grades 6-12, specializing in auditory processing disorders, ADHD, and learning differences. Hope Haven’s Discovery School 📍 4600 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 📞 904-346-5100 💡 Preschool, VPK, and kindergarten education for children ages 3-6. Growing Together Behavioral Center 🌍 Website 📍 6789 SouthPoint Parkway, Bldg 100, Jacksonville, FL 32216 📞 904-556-7330 💡 Premier school for children with autism and developmental disabilities, offering individualized education and behavioral programs. Jacksonville School for Autism 📍 9000 Cypress Green Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32256 📞 904-732-4343 💡 Uses an ABA-integrative approach for children with ASD. The Jericho School 📍 1300 Sprinkle Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32211 📞 904-744-5110 💡 Private non-profit school providing ABA therapy for autism and other developmental disabilities. The Keystone Academy 📍 6867 Southpoint Drive North, Suite 103, Jacksonville, FL 32216 📞 904-619-6071 💡 Private school serving pre-K through high school students with cognitive, developmental, and mental health disorders. Mosaic Day School / Keystone Child Development Center 🌍 Website 📍 6867 Southpoint Drive North, Jacksonville, FL 32216 📞 904-619-6071 💡 Provides inclusive early childhood education for children ages 3 months through kindergarten with low student-to-teacher ratios. Little Star Center 🌍 Website 📍 3771 San Jose Place, Suite 22, Jacksonville, FL 32257 📞 904-928-0112 💡 Non-profit school offering individualized education for children with autism spectrum disorders. Mainspring Academy 🌍 Website 📍 6867 Southpoint Dr, Suite 103, Jacksonville, FL 32216 📞 904-619-6071 💡 Private, non-profit school focusing on cognitive, developmental, and mental health disorders. Morning Star School 🌍 Website 📍 725 Mickler Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32211 📞 904-721-2144 💡 Catholic special education school serving children ages 5-14. Reaching Milestones with BCS – ABA Therapy Services
🌍 Website 📍 Southside Location 11512 Lake Mead Avenue, Suite 601, Jacksonville, FL 32256 📞 904-374-8536 📍 Fortune Parkway Location 10175 Fortune Parkway, Unit 903, Jacksonville, FL 32256 📞 904-538-0713 💡 About: Reaching Milestones with BCS is a privately owned organization providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to children with disabilities. They use research-based behavioral interventions to improve learning, social, and communication skills, helping children achieve greater independence. |
Florida Autism Centers
📍 Jacksonville NW – 2425 Dunn Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32218 | 📞 (904) 420-2304 📍 Orange Park – 1563 Kingsley Ave, Suite 103, Orange Park, FL 32073 | 📞 (904) 602-9740 📍 St. Augustine – 124 Capulet Dr., Saint Augustine, FL 32092 | 📞 (904) 429-3859 🌍 Website 💡 Florida’s leading provider of center-based ABA therapy. Specialized Therapies & Support Services First Coast Music Therapy 🌍 Website 📍 546 Rosebush Ln, Jacksonville, FL 32225 📞 904-237-3087 💡 Uses music therapy for cognitive and emotional development. Project Chance – Service Dogs 🌍 Website 📍 95512 Arbor Lane, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 📞 904-491-0414 💡 Provides trained service dogs for children with autism. Peace of Mind Jax – Babysitting Services 📞 904-257-6424 💡 Specializes in caregiving services for children with special needs. Hearts, Hands, and Hooves – Hippotherapy 📍 1783 Nolan Road, Middleburg, FL 32086 📞 904-778-9697 Hope Therapy – Hippotherapy & NARHA Riding Center 📍 1591 Bog Branch Rd, Middleburg, FL 32068 📞 904-291-6784 Healing Touch Music Therapy, Inc. 📞 904-540-1169 💡 Led by Gretchen D. Mitchell, MMT, MT-BC, offering music therapy for various conditions. Horse Haven Ranch – Hippotherapy 📍 7333 County Road 208, St. Augustine, FL 32092 📞 904-813-5710 Independent Living Resource Center 📍 2709 Art Museum Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32207 📞 904-399-8484 💡 Supports individuals with disabilities to achieve independent living. Positive Space Therapy + Consulting 📍 5270 Palm Valley Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 📞 904-607-2834 💡 Offers art therapy, consulting services, and yoga for children and adults with autism and related conditions. Drop Your Reins – Natural Horsemanship Therapy 📍 PO Box 1124, Live Oak, FL 32064 📞 386-466-6466 💡 Alternative healing for children with ADD, ADHD, and autism. Brain Balance Center of Jacksonville 🌍 Website 📍 13820 Old St. Augustine Rd, Suite 301, Jacksonville, FL 32258 📞 904-800-7278 💡 After-school program designed to help children with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and sensory processing disorders by improving brain function and learning abilities. 
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Summer Camps for Special Needs
It can be a challenge to find the perfect camp for people with special needs.
Here are a few great ideas.
Here are a few great ideas.
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Angelwood Summer Day Camp
📍 4674-2 Hood Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257 💡 A summer camp designed for children with disabilities, offering engaging activities in a supportive environment. The Butterfly Project 📞 904-257-5276 💡 A hands-on experience where students learn the behind-the-scenes process of recording a song and producing a music video. Camp Endeavor 📍 1300 Southern Rd, Dundee, FL 33838 📞 863-439-1300 💡 A specialized summer camp for children with hearing impairments, fostering communication and social skills. Camp Possible 📞 904-264-2522 💡 A weekly day camp that combines learning with fun, promoting age-appropriate social skills. Marywood 📞 904-230-7447 💡 Catholic ministry camps serving children with developmental, physical, and multiple challenges. Dream Oaks Camp 📍 7359 Merchant Ct, Sarasota, FL 34240 (Mailing) 📍 16009 Upper Manatee River Rd, Manatee, FL 34202 📞 941-746-5659 💡 A camp experience for children with physical and developmental disabilities, as well as serious illnesses. Flora, Fauna, and Fitness Camp 📞 904-724-8323 💡 A two-week camp where children explore nature, engage in physical activities, and enjoy arts and crafts on a beautiful farm. Camp I Am Special 📍 235 Marywood Drive, St. Johns, FL 32259 📞 904-230-7447 🌍 Website 💡 A Catholic-based camp providing a fun and inclusive environment for individuals with special needs. Hope Haven Summer Programs📍 4600 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32207 📞 904-346-5100 📧 [email protected] 💡 Summer programs for children with learning differences, autism, and other developmental challenges. Autism Society of Florida 🌍 Website 💡 Offers resources, support, and summer programs for families of children with autism. Jacksonville School for Autism (JSA) Summer Camp 📍 9000 Cypress Green Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32256 📞 904-732-4343 📧 [email protected] 🌍 Website 💡 A structured and engaging summer program using an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) model for children with autism. |
MOSH Summer Adventure Camp
📍 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 📞 904-396-6674 💡 Hands-on science, technology, and nature experiences for children of all abilities. The Arc Jacksonville – Summer Life Experience 🌍 Website 💡 A four-week summer program for young adults (ages 18-26) with intellectual and developmental differences, focusing on independence and life skills. Riding the Wave of Autism 📞 904-716-4198 💡 A specialized surf camp that offers children with autism and other disabilities the opportunity to enjoy water activities. The Jericho School – Summer Camp for Autism 📍 1351 Sprinkle Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32211 📧 [email protected] 💡 A summer program incorporating ABA therapy and individualized learning plans for children with autism. Jacksonville School for Children with Autism 📍 4000 Spring Park Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32007 📞 904-732-4343 💡 A summer program designed by occupational therapists, focusing on motor skills, communication, and social interaction Nemours BrightStart!📍 10140 Centurion Parkway North, Jacksonville, FL 32256 📞 904-697-3118 | 877-878-3118 📧 [email protected] 💡 Provides early literacy intervention for young children at risk of reading challenges. UF Early Steps Program📍 910 N. Jefferson St, Jacksonville, FL 📞 904-360-7022, ext. 261 🌍 Website 💡 Offers early intervention services at no cost for infants and toddlers (birth to 36 months) with developmental delays. Great Strides Rehabilitation Summer Programs 📍 12276 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32203 📞 904-886-3228 💡 Provides pediatric therapy services including speech, occupational, and physical therapy. . 
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Breakthroughs and Joy
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“Stand up, up, UP!” is the mantra of Surfers for Autism, an organization that runs surf events for children with autism, providing the opportunity to not only catch waves, but to become part of a supportive surfing community.
These are stories about the struggles children with autism face—the struggle to stand on a surfboard, the struggle to communicate, the struggle to make progress in a world which accepts “normal” and rejects all else. But they’re also stories of breakthroughs, of authentic joy and unbridled excitement as they learn to see their world from a whole new perspective—standing tall atop a surfboard, riding a wave all their own. Exploring new avenues of therapy for those with autism, with therapeutic and extraordinary results, Waves of Healing is a snapshot of hope, courage, and human perseverance. where to find it |
Blogs We Love
The Mighty
The Mighty is an awesome blog that I follow on facebook. The blog is geared toward all disabilities but it has a special section on Autism. Their motto is ....We publish real stories by real people facing real challenges. The stories are always inspiring uplifting and real.
Finding Cooper's Voice
Finding Cooper's Voice: An authentic blog by a Mom navigating autism. If you want to really understand what it is to be a parent of a child with autism - this is a moving, interesting blog that helps parents know they are not alone.
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Autism Facts
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We know and love the region of Northern St. Johns and each issue is filled with beautiful photography and thoughtfully curated articles that aim to inform, entertain and inspire our readers. Features include stories on local people, business leaders, arts and entertainment, top food and drink destinations, local heroes, and fun things to do. Launched in 2012, Johns Magazine publishes twelve times a year. It is available in print and online at Stjohnsmag.com and distributed free of charge to SELECT homes in northern St. Johns via US Postal Service. ©2012-2025 All Rights Reserved
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