LYNN HAVEN, FL — The Arc of the Bay and Florida State University Panama City Early Childhood Autism Program (FSU-PC ECAP) are proud to announce the launch of the Collaborative Autism Resources, Education and Support (CARES) Program, made possible through a $25,000 grant from the St. Joe Community Foundation. The grant was formally presented during The Arc of the Bay’s 10th Annual Kohl’s Fashion Show on Saturday evening, where community members, supporters and partners gathered to celebrate inclusion while learning about this exciting new initiative.

The CARES Program brings together the strengths of two organizations dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities and their families. Through this partnership, The Arc of the Bay and FSU-PC ECAP will expand access to autism resources, caregiver education, community support and specialized programming designed to improve outcomes for individuals across the lifespan. By combining expertise and resources, the CARES Program will create a more connected support system for families navigating autism diagnoses while strengthening opportunities for education, advocacy and long-term success throughout the Bay County community.

“We are incredibly grateful to the St. Joe Community Foundation for believing in this partnership and investing in the future of the families we serve,” said Ron Sharpe, CEO and President at The Arc of the Bay. “The CARES Program represents what is possible when organizations come together with a shared mission. This funding allows us to build meaningful support systems that will have a lasting impact on our community.”

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to serving individuals with autism and their families through collaboration, innovation and compassionate care,” said Amy Polick, Development Director of FSU ECAP. “We are excited to work alongside The Arc of the Bay to expand services and create new opportunities for the families who depend on us.”

The announcement served as one of the evening’s highlights, reinforcing The Arc of the Bay’s ongoing commitment to building partnerships that enhance services and create new opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

For more information about The Arc of the Bay, visit www.bayarc.org. To learn more about FSU Panama City ECAP, visit pc.fsu.edu/ecap.