by Lee Pierre
Joanne Stuart Rogers had what she calls “a little brainstorm thing” six years ago. Her brainstorm led to the local nonprofit called L.E.A.P (Learning Enrichment Autism Project).
Rogers serves as president, founder, and CEO of the organization established with a core mission to encourage, enlighten, and empower individuals and families navigating autism. The organization focuses on increasing awareness, promoting inclusion, and creating opportunities that help individuals thrive within their communities.
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 31 children and 1 in 45 adults in the United States today.
“Our goal is to bring people together and create environments where individuals impacted by autism can thrive,” said Rogers. “By working collectively, we can help piece together the puzzle in ways that strengthen families and communities.”
One parent, who preferred to remain anonymous, spoke about how L.E.A.P has helped her understand her 32-year-old daughter who is autistic and has diagnosed with Asperger. She said her daughter had always been uncomfortable in crowds.
“In the past few years, I have enjoyed seeing my daughter become more active. She enjoys working in the fundraisers,” said the mother.
The parent also mentioned how she appreciates that Rogers brings in guest speakers not just for the clients but for the family as well. Information is shared to assist parents in better understanding what to do and how to do things to encourage success in their child.
Rogers grew up on a farm in Floyd County, Virginia, where she said, “Basically, I grew up in the country, and it taught me to be grateful and how to look at other people, even though they have a difference, how to love them.”
She remembered how the behaviors of a few of her relatives and others she knew were on the spectrum. It was her empathy and compassion that moved her to set up a program and become engaged with local people on the spectrum. “Through various other experiences, I felt that this was one of the most rewarding and dedicated things I could ever do,” she added.
Rogers credits her dedicated leadership team for the ongoing success of L.E.A.P. Paula Ferguson is vice president, and Rogers’ “right hand keeper.” They work together in the community.
Dyan Gaston-Grant serves as secretary. Sandra Powell serves as treasurer and educational coordinator. Quentin Long oversees social media management.
“A strong team is like a puzzle, each piece unique but when joined together, they create the full picture,” Rogers said.
L.E.A.P continues to expand its outreach through community partnerships, awareness initiatives, and family-centered programs. These efforts include engagement events, resource connections for parents and caregivers, and social development opportunities for children and adults. The organization collaborates with educators, advocates, families, and community leaders to ensure its programs address real-world needs while promoting empowerment and inclusion.
For additional information, visit https://leapforautism.org or email: [email protected].
