Warriors For Autism

Founded by Olando and Deena Rivera, Warriors for Autism is a non profit organizaton dedicated to enlightening, empowering and enriching the lives of families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders. Currently the organization and its services are based out of Tampa, Florida.  Olando and Deena have been autism advocates since thier son Anthony was diagnosed as having an ASD in 2001.

We host support group meetings, play dates for the children, holiday events and our annual summer camp program . We participate in rallies, walks and awareness events around the state promoting our mission to the ASD Community. There are many new projects in the works and we will be updating the site regularly as the programs have been developed and are ready for the public.  Please c
ontinue to check back regularly and join our social media sites to be kept in the know.  In addition, we offer social media sights via Facebook and Twitter with the latest information on therapies. diets. treatments, current events circulating the media and where if any are available in the Tampa Bay Area. All of which should be used at your discretion and with the opinion of your treating physician.

Our Anthony’s story:

Anthony lived the life of a typical little boy – active, healthy, playful and loving – up until about 20 months of age.  He recieved his 18 month vaccines a bit late and the same day, after abruptly seizing, Anthony’s speech came to a halt.  He stopped eating most foods and started to have uncontrollable tantrums, injuring himself at times.  He was distant and unresponsive towards his family but began to completely obsess over objects and order.  At 2 years old, Anthony was diagnosed with Pervasive Development Disorder (PDD-nos), one of the many conditions on the Autism Spectrum.

Today, at 13 years old Anthony has made so much progress he almost seems like a different person.  He is now speaking in short sentences, attends mainstream classes at his school, is an amazing athlete with a healthy appetite and enjoys having fun with his family!  Anthony receives various types of therapy including HBOT and has an Autism Service Dog, named Catcher, specially trained to fit his specific needs.  There is still so much more that he needs, that he will always need, but together we can make a difference…for my child, for your child and for each of the 1 in 88 children affected today.

UPDATE: Fall 2012

We are very grateful to all that have supported our summer camp on the farm program for ASD children and their siblings!  We were, through the generosity of many, including the Horsepower For Kids Farm to provide an unique and affordable camp for many Tampa Bay children this summer.

However, Camp is over for the year and there are still many different events we would like to host for the children this year.  We still need your support and donations to help get this years Fall Festival, Toy Drive and Sensory Friendly Holiday Event off the ground!  Stop by our “Events Page” to see what is on our calendar and show your support.

Please continue to donate and help spread the word about our
“Little non profit doing big things in the Bay!”