Autism Shifts

We're Thrilled to be able to Participate in Give Day for the Third Year! Last Year's Success opened doors for our students, families and future in so many ways. 

This year we're asking You to JOIN THE SHIFT with us and help us raise $25,000 with at least 100 unique donors.  90% of adults with Autism are unemployed. We're working hard to change that!

These funds will help 10 students with Autism  go through our Classes to be Employment-Ready. We wish to help make Tampa Bay and Autism-Ready Community with your help in driving awareness, education and funding for our program.

Autism Shifts is the vision of Vicky Westra, the mother of Gabriella Westra  who was diagnosed with autism at the age of four.  After 22 years in Corporate America, Vicky left her senior leadership role and opened the first Artistas Café on January 2011 through a partnership with Mercedes-Benz of Tampa.  Artistas Café is a first-of-its-kind Café employing a front line team, all who have been diagnosed with autism

Because of the success of this program, our vision is to Create an Autism Ready world built on Unconditional Love, Unlimited Possibilities  and Universal Inclusion. We work to transform communities by

1.  Raising Awareness and Understanding of Autism to create inclusive communities

2.  Inspire Parents and Caregivers to live in hope, joy and empowerment

3.   Create Autism Employment Ready Businesses

4.   Empower Individuals with Autism to live their lives on purpose

Together Tampa Bay can be the First AUTISM READY COMMUNITY!

The funds we receive from this Give Day campaign will go towards each of our programs that support our vision.