Our Impact

7,000+ members in our virtual support group

25+ speakers and vendors at our 2024 Symposium Event

Inclusive accommodations at community events through our SNAZ trailer

Monthly events supporting caregivers and individuals with special needs

Our WHY

Our best programs like our quarterly Dad’s Who Care group come from the hearts and souls of the community members we aim to serve like Mark Wallace! If you have a program idea, tell us about it

Our 2024 Resource EXPO Highlight Reel! Connecting families with invaluable local resources and providing insightful presentations on key educational topics that enhance their caregiving journey. Relive the impactful moments from this incredible event!

OUR MISSION, VISION & VALUES

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower individuals with special needs and their families in south metro Atlanta by connecting them with resources, fostering inclusive events, and creating opportunities for education and support - building a community where people of ALL ABILITIES feel valued and supported.

Vision

A community where every individual with special needs can thrive, and every caregiver feels supported, connected, and empowered.

Values

A community where every individual with special needs can thrive, and every caregiver feels supported, connected, and empowered.

  • Inclusion – We create environments where individuals of all abilities are welcomed, valued, and supported.
  • Connection – We strengthen families by linking them to resources, providers, and community networks.
  • Empowerment – We equip caregivers and individuals with tools, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive.
  • Compassion – We serve with empathy, understanding, and respect for every family’s unique journey.

OUR PROGRAMS 

Southside Support strengthens families of individuals with special needs through a blend of annual signature events, ongoing programs, and community‑wide inclusion initiatives.

Annual Programs

  • PROM Possible – A red‑carpet, confidence‑building celebration where individuals with special needs are honored, uplifted, and given an unforgettable night of joy and belonging.
  • Camp Southside – Two inclusive summer camps for middle schoolers, teens, and adults with special needs, offering friendship, freedom, and fun in a safe, supportive environment.
  • Empowerment Summit – A resource‑rich conference equipping families with expert guidance, tools, and training to navigate the caregiving journey with confidence.

Ongoing Programs

  • Dad’s Support Group – A relaxed, connection‑focused gathering where fathers of individuals with special needs can learn, share, and support one another.
  • Caregiver Support Group – A welcoming space for caregivers to build relationships, find encouragement, and access practical resources.
  • Family Fun Events – Sensory‑friendly movies, yoga classes, park days, and other activities that foster connection and community.
  • Teen and Adult Game Nights – A social program supporting middle schoolers through adults with special needs as they build friendships, practice social skills, and enjoy inclusive community engagement.
  • Online Support Group (8,000+ members) – A moderated digital community where caregivers, providers, and resources come together to answer questions, share insights, and support one another daily.

SNAZ Mobile Accommodation Trailer

Southside Support also offers SNAZ, our 7' x 12' Mobile Accommodation Trailer, to help local organizations make their events accessible and inclusive for individuals with special needs. SNAZ provides:

  • A sensory‑safe cool‑down zone
  • Privacy for feeding and soothing
  • Changing tables for infants through adults
  • Climate‑controlled comfort
  • Adaptive supplies and engaging sensory tools

Local event organizers may request SNAZ to be onsite at festivals, resource fairs, school events, church gatherings, and community celebrations — ensuring individuals of all abilities can participate fully.

Who We Are

When a group of autism moms south of Atlanta connected online to share support, resources, and ideas, Southside Support was born. No longer just an autism support group, Southside Support seeks to connect families and individuals with all types of disabilities to each other and their communities.

"A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.”

Christopher Reeve

Parent Testimonials

  • Anonymous parent at a monthly community gathering
    "...I used to buy my child every Matchbox car in the grocery store that he asked for because saying 'No' caused an embarrassing meltdown. My concern for the other shoppers' comfort and their perception of me and my child outweighed the valuable, teachable moment that would have benefited me and my son. Sharing my experience with other parents in the Southside Support Group provided comfort that I wasn't ALONE...."
    Anonymous parent at a monthly community gathering
  • Melanie Harper, Peachtree City, GA
    15 years ago, our son was diagnosed with autism. We couldn't participate in local activities for little kids because of his extreme behaviors like non-stop door slamming. I felt very isolated. If I'd had this group back then, we would have learned how to navigate life as a family with autism so much sooner.
    Melanie Harper, Peachtree City, GA