FEAT of Louisville

Who We Are

Founded in 1999 and based in Louisville, Kentucky, FEAT of Louisville exists to help ease the journey for children and families with Autism through ongoing support, education, programs, community events and resources. Autism is a complex neurological disorder that typically surfaces prior to age three. Affected children generally lack appropriate social engagement, have significant communication impairments, and often demonstrate repetitive behaviors due to sensory dysfunction. Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability today, a startling 1 in 31 are being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

                                                                               

Why We are Fundraising

Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for individuals with autism — a heartbreaking but preventable reality. That’s why FEAT of Louisville created Get Your "FEAT" Wet, a specialized swim program for children with autism . Through personalized, therapeutic instruction, hundreds of children in our community have gained the lifesaving skill of swimming.

Sadly, drowning incidents among autistic individuals are on the rise. Our program demand is growing — and so is our need for support. We’re fundraising to expand access to this critical program, ensuring more children can learn to swim, stay safe, and thrive.

What is Get Your “FEAT” Wet Innovative Swim Program?

Get Your "FEAT Wet" is a specialized swim program designed for children with autism ages 3 and up. For almost 2 decades, FEAT of Louisville has partnered with Home of the Innocents, All About Kids, Aqua Tots, and Goldfish Swim School to teach this lifesaving skill to hundreds of children in our community. Each session is supported by a behavior therapist to provide individualized, therapeutic instruction.

Many children with autism face challenges such as hypotonia, sensory integration differences, and motor skill delays, making it difficult, and often impossible, to learn to swim in typical settings. Tragically, drowning is a leading cause of death for individuals with autism. That’s why our program uses proven, autism-specific methods to help children gain confidence and stay safe in the water.

As demand grows, we are committed to expanding Get Your "FEAT" Wet, ensuring even more children have the opportunity to learn this critical skill.

CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR STORY ON WAVE 3 NEWS:

Louisville non-profit stresses importance of swim lessons for children with autism

CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR STORY ON WLKY NEWS:

Autism advocates raise awareness about Project Lifesaver following IAN Alert

Louisville family sharing their son's journey with autism to raise awareness

  

Parent Testimonials

26 Years of Making An Impact

"The FEAT organization entered our lives at a pivotal moment. When KJ was diagnosed with autism at the age of three, we turned to FEAT in search of resources to support him. What we found was so much more. In 2019, we attended a Christmas party hosted by FEAT, and I still remember the nerves that accompanied us. As we walked in, we were met with warm, welcoming smiles. Melanie, sensing our anxiety, greeted us with a big hug and said, “Hey Mom, we’re so glad you’re here.” In that moment, I realized we had found a community that would embrace us, even on our toughest days. The love and support we’ve received from the FEAT organization has been invaluable, and we feel truly blessed to be part of such an incredible group. Thank you for everything!" The Bakers, FEAT Family

"When Matthew received his autism diagnosis after turning three years old, it felt like a gut punch.

We went through all the steps one would go through for grief...particularly denial which was a big one for us.

Its been an education for our family - learning what to do and especially what not to do to keep things peaceful.

The rollercoaster ride called "Autism" has kept us constantly learning and adapting in order to survive.

Luckily we have encountered resources along the way that have helped us recover and provided outreach when needed.

Of course I'm talking about FEAT and the amazing support system they've provided our family over the years.

Everything from the "Get Your FEAT Wet" and Autism swim programs at various locations throughout Louisville as well as the

Trunk-or-Treats, Christmas parties and parents' nights out have kept us active and participating with other special needs families.

While Matthew still struggles with his anxiety, he has made vast improvements in several of his autistic behaviors and

without organizations like FEAT providing fun activities who knows where he would be today.

Thank you FEAT for all that you've done, are doing and will continue to do!"  Tony Block, FEAT parent