About us

An Indoor Sensory PlaySPACE

SPACE Autastic, Inc, is an indoor play space, with specifically designed and selected equipment for all Autistic and other special needs individuals to enjoy with their families and caregivers. We offer a welcoming and inclusive space for intellectually disabled people of all ages to explore and play in a judgement-free environment. Our broad selection of sensory and therapeutic equipment allows for both small and large motor input needs. We have smaller dedicated calming rooms for a more personal sensory experience. Our space can be rented for a private, one-of-a-kind birthday party experience, or for local school special education classes and community groups.

We hold monthly educational seminars open to parents, caregivers, school staff, emergency response members, and any other community member seeking more understanding of caring for and supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities. We offer resources for all community members and our registered families. We host monthly support social hours for caregivers, siblings, and adults to interact with each other and build a sense of community.

Check our Events tab to see upcoming seminars. 

Registration is required prior to scheduling a play time. Documentation of a special need that can benefit from our sensory gym is required to participate. Approved documents include IEP, IFSP, 504 plan, Doctor’s note, or current therapist note. If you have questions on approved documentation, please feel free to email us using the contact tab. A parent or guardian must also sign our responsibility and liability waiver before scheduling a play time.

Our play sessions are priced per dependent. Adult caregivers and infants under 12 months are free, and therefore do not need to have a reserved play spot. Play sessions have limited spots. This allows for our capacity to remain low to better serve the sensory needs of all participants. We do not offer supervision, so adults must attend to their dependents.

Vision
We strive to be a judgment-free facility where neurodiverse individuals can be themselves in an environment geared toward their needs.
Mission
SPACE Autastic, Inc. is a non-profit organization offering a safe and specialized play area for Autistic and other special needs individuals and their families to enjoy. We also facilitate community education by offering support, resources, educational and informational seminars.

Founder, President & Treasurer

Kate Everhart

Kate and her husband, Michael, are parents to three children, two of whom have autism. Discouraged by the lack of safe local options for their youngest child, Kate conceived the idea of a sensory gym. She also serves as the District Family Liaison for the School District of Milton, helping parents connect with community resources.

“It can be really intimidating and overwhelming taking kids to explore new places. Especially ones not necessarily designed for kids with special needs. I knew I wasn’t the only parent with that same struggle,” said Kate. 

Meet our board members
Melissa Bussinger, Vice President

Melissa and Brent are proud parents of two amazing children. Their journey has been shaped by the unique medical needs of one of their children, who possesses remarkable qualities including autism. Throughout the years, they have encountered numerous challenges, yet their child has consistently overcome them. Melissa is honored to be a part of the SPACE Autastic team. She recognizes the value of giving back to the community and extending a helping hand to others.

Michelle Holmes, Secretary

Michelle is a mother who has a grown son flourishing with autism. Her unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in the autism community fuels her drive. With a teaching degree in Early Childhood Education and as a Registered Behavior Technician, Michelle currently provides ABA therapy in a clinic setting, while also advocating for autism awareness. With over 20 years of experience working with children from diverse backgrounds, she finds joy in helping them grow while making learning fun. Michelle is excited for this new chapter with SPACE Autastic. Author Unknown once said, "I thought I'd teach my child about the world. Turns out I'm teaching the world about him."

There are No Limits in SPACE!

Offering specialized play and community education for full inclusion.