About Us
Georgia Autism Parental Support
We must recognize and address the disparities in autism diagnosis and treatment across racial groups.
5.1x
"Black American children are 5.1x more likely to be misdiagnosed with conduct or adjustment disorders."
13%
"Indigenous children are 13% less likely to be identified as autistic."
2.5 years
"On average Latino children are diagnosed 2.5 years later than white non-Latino children."
Source: Neff, M.A. (n.d.). Special Edition: Autism Awareness Series: BIPOC and Autism. Neurodivergent Insights.
Why GAPS?
We unite BIPOC families to navigate the autism journey together, amplifying their voices for a more inclusive future.
Through various events and programs, we create a space where families can connect, celebrate their unique cultures, and discover opportunities for personal growth.
We believe that equitable access to resources
is essential for both individual and community success.
Celebrate our incredible community and connect with other families at our events!
Jeremiah's Story
This is my son Jeremiah! It has always been important for our family to be out in the community, even when times are tough.
When Jeremiah was younger, we had a lot of hard days with public episodes. We read the book The Reason I Jump to get a better emotional understanding of what Autism is like for Jeremiah. This book helped us find a balance with how we felt as parents and how he felt as the child on the spectrum.
I created GAPS because I’m passionate about bringing our BIPOC community together. With autism awareness and diagnosis rates still rising, I believe we need all the help and resources we can get.
It always takes a village, so let's make our way back to one another.
Founder and CEO Crystal Skanes
Team
Crystal Skanes
Founder + CEO
My son Jeremiah is my joy and light. Autism has been and continues to be a huge part of my life for over 10 years now. Life on the spectrum for Jeremiah has taken me on the journey that led to this moment in time. It continues to be my utmost privilege to share my resources and be a beacon for anyone in the community who needs me.
Ariel Crawford
Board Chairman
I am radically optimistic about the community coming together to make an impact on the world we live in. I am a public servant and educator that believes in feeding human connection and communication. My greatest gift is the life I live with my son, partner, and two fur children in Southern, Maryland.
Elsa Johnson
Secretary
I am a mom of three who is passionate about making a change within my community and the world.
Shakura Castro
Treasurer
A devoted wife and mother to my son, Prince, who is on the Autism Spectrum. His journey has ignited a fire within me, leading me to passionately advocate for children and adults on the Autism Spectrum. I pray that my dedication is inspiring as I make an impactful contribution for greater understanding, acceptance, and support towards a more inclusive world.
Jocelyn Holland
Board Member
I am a wife and mother of 2 high-spirited toddler boys. I have 8 years of experience in Pediatric Neurology, specializing in autism. As a clinical manager, I ran the clinic and managed relations between the families, connecting them to resources. I have years of experience with Neuro-modalities such as tDCS and infrared light therapy. My life’s journey up to this point has kept me close to the autism community, and I love it here.
Keya Gibbons
Board Member
I am a community activist, artist, and staunch advocate for the recognition, inclusion and celebration of neurodiversity.
Bárbara RodrĂguez
Board Member
I’m a blessed wife, mom, engineer, and a passionate advocate for my kids. As a mom of a kid on the Spectrum, my life took a detour that taught me the most valuable lessons in life. It’s been a journey with many unknowns and uncertainty; but celebrated by uniqueness, kindness, progress, achievements and love. Kindness is free and one of the most powerful gifts to give. In a world where you can be anything, be KIND.
For questions and concerns, contact [email protected]
