Impact
Building connection and community for mothers raising autistic children.
The Need for Community
Many mothers raising autistic children experience isolation.
Between therapies, medical appointments, school challenges, and the emotional weight of advocacy, it can be hard to find people who truly understand the journey.
While there are many incredible services for autistic children, support for the mothers navigating this path is often overlooked.
MAKE was created to change that.
MAKE began with co-founder Jordan Bates, a mother raising two autistic sons, who experienced firsthand how isolating the journey of raising autistic children can sometimes feel.
While navigating diagnoses, therapies, and the day-to-day realities of advocating for her children, Jordan began sharing her family's autism journey online. Through those conversations, she quickly realized that many mothers were searching for the same thing: connection with others who truly understood their lives.
One message from a mother who shared how lonely she felt — and how hard it was to find friends in the autism community — helped spark the idea that eventually became MAKE.
Together with other mothers raising autistic children — including fellow co-founder Stefanie Gonzalez — the first MAKE gathering was organized. What started as a small event quickly grew into a thriving community where mothers support one anther through the challenges and joys of raising autistic children.
Today, MAKE continues to bring mothers together through community gatherings and events designed to foster connection, support, and friendship.
How MAKE Began
The first MAKE gathering - January 2024
MAKE creates welcoming spaces where mothers raising autistic children can connect, share experiences, and support one another.
Through community gatherings, social events, and educational opportunities, mothers build friendships, exchange resources, and find encouragement from people who truly understand their lives.
For many, attending a MAKE event is the first time they meet other mothers walking a similar path.
What MAKE Provides
MAKE by the Numbers
8
MAKE Events Hosted
500+
Mothers Connected
Hundreds
Friendships Formed
Across AZ
A Growing Community
More Than Just an Event
At MAKE gatherings, mothers connect in ways that extend far beyond the event itself.
Friendships are formed. Resources are shared. Mothers leave feeling seen, understood, and supported.
Many attendees exchange phone numbers, create group chats, and continue supporting one another long after the event ends.
Community Supporters
MAKE is grateful for the organizations and businesses that have helped support and grow this community.
Channing's Joy Foundation
The Channing's Joy Foundation has generously supported MAKE from the beginning, helping make our events possible and supporting the growth of this community for mothers raising autistic children.
Founding Community Sponsor
Community Partners
DJ Bam
Event DJ Partner
Bubbalou Catering
Catering Partner
AZ Aspire Academy
Event Supporter
Event Supporters
Patty's Pix
Event Photo Booth Partner
Many businesses and community members have donated raffle items, services, and other support to MAKE events. Their generosity helps make these gatherings possible.
Community Contributors
Interested in supporting the MAKE community or partnering on a future event?
Looking Ahead
As the MAKE community continues to grow, we hope to expand opportunities for connection, support, and education for mothers raising autistic children.
Future goals include hosting additional events, building partnerships within the autism community, and creating more spaces where mothers can connect and feel supported.
Our mission remains simple: no mother raising an autistic child should feel alone.
Be Part of the Community
Join our email list to stay informed about upcoming MAKE events and opportunities to connect with other mothers raising autistic children.