Cape Coral, FL: ABA provider offers free screening; "a growing need"
- The end of childhood
- Jun 19, 2025
- 2 min read
June 18, 2025, Cape Coral Breeze: Family Initiative expands autism services to Babcock Ranch with free screenings
Family Initiative will begin offering free monthly autism screenings in Babcock Ranch on Saturday, June 21, providing early developmental assessments for children up to 4 years old.
In partnership with the Babcock Ranch community, Family Initiative will host the screenings from 9 a.m. to noon at Explorers Park, 16800 Babcock Trail, in Punta Gorda. The screenings are free and open to the public, but registration is required.
“Bringing Family Initiative to Babcock Ranch to offer free autism screenings each month is an important step toward making sure every child in our community has access to early support and resources,” said Ally Bessette, communications director of the Babcock Ranch Residential Association. “Early identification can make a profound difference in a child’s development, and having this service available right here at home reflects our commitment to supporting all families and building a truly inclusive community.”
Family Initiative, a nonprofit serving children and families impacted by autism across Southwest Florida, identified a growing need for early intervention services in the Babcock Ranch area. This expansion aims to close service gaps and bring support directly to families in the rapidly growing community. . . .
The screenings do not provide a diagnosis but can help identify areas where further evaluation may be beneficial. Staff will be available to discuss results and offer guidance on next steps for families. . . .
Founded in 2015, Family Initiative Inc. is a Florida-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children with autism and strengthening their families. Its team of clinicians serves children through a compassionate, personalized approach using Applied Behavior Analysis and Occupational Therapy. The organization also offers autism play groups, teen meetups, parent education, and community conversations. In addition, Family Initiative provides training and support for child welfare caregivers through its Family Impact Program.
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