About Us
Our History
Families of Autistic Children in Tidewater was founded in 1993 by a small group of concerned and dedicated parents of children with autism. They recognized the lack of social and recreational programs specifically for their children. Most children with Autism are educated in segregated classrooms with children with similar disabilities, limiting or prohibiting interaction with non–disabled peers. Outside of school, children with autism are often ostracized due to their unusual or compulsive behaviors. The founders of F.A.C.T. believed that all children need and deserve fun and enriching social experiences in the company of friends. Through grass root fundraising efforts, the group sponsored their first week long summer day camp program in 1999, serving 5 children. The camp included non-disabled peer buddies as an important component of the program. In 2006, the camp served nearly 150 children over a five week period.