Who We Are

Serve the Spectrum Inc. is a nonprofit supporting autistic individuals, the organizations that serve them, and schools with ASD students. Through our grants, we help the greater Charlotte community access essential resources, tools, and services.

Our Mission

Our mission is to expand access to resources and services for autistic individuals by providing financial support to families, organizations, and schools. We strive to help every person we serve reach their fullest potential.

Our Why

Autism is part of the lives of millions of families across the country, and in 2025 the CDC reported that 1 in 31 children in the U.S. is identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) -  a continued rise from previous years.


This increase reflects not only growing awareness, but also better access to evaluations in many communities. Even so, many families continue to face gaps in early identification, disparities in available services, and financial challenges that can feel overwhelming.


Behind every statistic is a child who deserves the chance to thrive—and a family doing everything possible to support them.


The CDC’s latest findings highlight several important truths:

  • Autism affects children across all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups, with underserved communities showing increased identification thanks to improved awareness and access.
  • Boys remain more likely to be diagnosed than girls, but diagnostic gaps are narrowing as awareness of how autism presents differently grows.
  • Co-occurring intellectual disabilities affect many autistic children, with nearly 40% having additional needs that require specialized support.
  • Schools continue to play a critical role in identifying and supporting autistic children - yet many still experience delays in evaluation or gaps in services.


At the same time, the financial realities of autism remain daunting for families:

  • Autism-related expenses during childhood average about $60,000 per year, driven by specialized therapies, support services, and reduced parental income.
  • Medical expenses for autistic children are 4.1 to 6.2 times higher than for non-autistic peers.
  • In the U.S., adult services account for the largest share of autism-related costs, estimated at $175–$196 billion annually, compared to $61–$66 billion for children.
  • Mothers of autistic children often experience significant career and income impact, earning far less than mothers of children without disabilities or with other conditions.


Why Serve the Spectrum Exists

  • At Serve the Spectrum Inc., we believe every autistic individual deserves equitable access to the tools, therapies, and opportunities that allow them to reach their fullest potential. No family should have to choose between essential services and financial stability.
  • Our grants help bridge the gap—supporting autistic individuals, families, schools, and organizations throughout the greater Charlotte area with the resources they need to thrive.