Our Mission
MAKE — Mamas of Autistic Kids Events — exists to transform isolation into connection for mothers raising autistic children.
Through thoughtfully planned gatherings and events, MAKE creates spaces where mothers raising autistic children can build meaningful relationships, gain knowledge, and find genuine support and connection.
Founded by mothers raising autistic children who understand the journey firsthand, MAKE is building a community where no mother has to navigate autism alone.
​
MAKE is an Arizona nonprofit organization building community for mothers raising autistic children.
8
MAKE Events Hosted
500+
Mothers Connected
Hundreds
Our Community Impact
Friendships Formed
Across AZ
A Growing Community
Our Community Impact
The Women Behind MAKE
Jordan Bates
Co-founder and President
​
Jordan Bates is a mother raising two autistic children and co-founder of MAKE. After experiencing how isolating the journey of raising autistic children can be, she co-founded MAKE to create the kind of community she wished existed for mothers walking a similar path. Jordan is passionate about fostering connection, supporting maternal mental health, and ensuring mothers raising autistic children never feel alone.
​
​
Stefanie Gonzalez
Co-founder and Vice President
​
Stefanie Gonzalez is a mother, advocate, and co-founder of MAKE. Inspired by her nonspeaking autistic daughter, Lilly, she is passionate about helping families access communication tools, resources, and community. Through her advocacy and nonprofit work, Stefanie helps create spaces where mothers raising autistic children can connect, feel supported, and know they are not alone.
Ellie McLaughlin
Secretary
​
Ellie is a certified graphic designer and mother of two neurodivergent teens. In 2023, she founded The AP Life, a neuro-affirming apparel brand that celebrates neurodivergent and disabled communities while helping raise awareness about how to better support autistic and neurodivergent individuals. Inspired by her autistic daughter Lexi and younger daughter Ainsley, Ellie brings creativity, perspective, and a deep commitment to neurodiversity advocacy to the MAKE community.
Ashley Rifkin
Treasurer
​
Ashley serves as Treasurer for MAKE and has been a dedicated volunteer since the organization’s earliest events. A mother of two, Ashley is committed to being an ally to the autism and disability communities and believes that life is easier — and more joyful — when mothers have a supportive community they can lean on. Through her role with MAKE, Ashley helps ensure the organization remains organized and sustainable as it continues to grow its impact for families across the community.
MAKE Featured on ABC15 News
MAKE was featured on ABC15 highlighting the growing community of mothers supporting one another across Arizona.
Community Moments
See highlights from recent MAKE events and the amazing community of mothers supporting each other.
Follow us on Instagram @mamasofautistickidsevents
Attend an Event
Connect with other mothers at upcoming MAKE gatherings designed to build friendship, support, and community.
​
​
Get Involved
Partner with MAKE
Local businesses, organizations, and community leaders help MAKE events possible through sponsorship and collaboration.
Stay Connected
Join our email list to hear about upcoming events, resources, and ways to get involved in the MAKE community.
Your Support Matters
Every donation helps MAKE create connection and support for mothers raising autistic children. Your generosity helps us host community events, provide resources, and build a network where mothers can find understanding, encouragement, and friendship.
​
Together, we can ensure no mother walks this path alone.
$25 helps provide supplies for a community gathering
$50 supports refreshments and event materials
$100 helps make an event accessible to more mothers