Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, UF Gainesville

Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, UF Gainesville UF CARD has a team of professionals serving children and adults with autism and related disabilities.

UF CARD SERVICES INCLUDE:
โ€ข ๐—ข๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐˜๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป ๐˜€๐—ฒ๐˜€๐˜€๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป๐˜€ with information about our services, an overview of autism and related disabilities, etc.
โ€ข ๐—ฅ๐—ฒ๐—ณ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—น๐˜€ for diagnosis, support groups, community services (i.e. agencies, doctors, therapists, etc.)
โ€ข ๐—Ÿ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฑ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด ๐—Ÿ๐—ถ๐—ฏ๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐˜† with books and videos on topics related to autism and related disabilities
โ€ข ๐—ฆ๐˜‚๐—ฝ๐—ฝ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐˜ ๐—š๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ฝ๐˜€ for children and adults with autism and related disabilities, siblings, and parents/caregivers
โ€ข ๐—ฉ๐—ถ๐˜€๐˜‚๐—ฎ๐—น ๐—ฆ๐˜‚๐—ฝ๐—ฝ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐˜๐˜€ ๐—Ÿ๐—ฎ๐—ฏ with materials for developing schedules, communication boards, social stories, etc.
โ€ข ๐—ช๐—ฒ๐—ฏ๐˜€๐—ถ๐˜๐—ฒ, ๐—ฒ๐—ก๐—ฒ๐˜„๐˜€, ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฑ ๐—ฆ๐—ผ๐—ฐ๐—ถ๐—ฎ๐—น ๐— ๐—ฒ๐—ฑ๐—ถ๐—ฎ to share information about upcoming trainings and conferences
โ€ข ๐—–๐—ผ๐—ป๐˜€๐˜‚๐—น๐˜๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป via email or telephone
โ€ข ๐—–๐—ผ๐—ป๐˜€๐˜‚๐—น๐˜๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐˜ƒ๐—ฒ ๐˜€๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐˜ƒ๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐—ฒ๐˜€ (short-term) appropriate to home, school, or community upon request
โ€ข ๐—œ๐—ป๐—ณ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—บ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฑ ๐—ง๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด on a variety of topics including instructional methods, communication, social skills, behavior, home/school/community issues, and adult life issues. Many trainings are available online as well as in-person and some are archived on our website for viewing on your schedule.
โ€ข ๐—”๐—ป๐—ป๐˜‚๐—ฎ๐—น ๐—ฆ๐˜๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ๐˜„๐—ถ๐—ฑ๐—ฒ ๐—–๐—”๐—ฅ๐—— ๐—–๐—ผ๐—ป๐—ณ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒ featuring nationally recognized speakers held each January(scholarships may be available for CARD constituents and their parents/guardians)
CARD ๐—ฑ๐—ผ๐—ฒ๐˜€ ๐—ป๐—ผ๐˜ provide services such as therapy, ongoing behavioral interventions, diagnosis, or respite care.
๐—–๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ป๐˜๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐˜€ ๐—ฆ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐˜ƒ๐—ฒ๐—ฑ ๐—ฏ๐˜† ๐—จ๐—™ ๐—–๐—”๐—ฅ๐—— ๐—š๐—ฎ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ฒ๐˜€๐˜ƒ๐—ถ๐—น๐—น๐—ฒ:
Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Lafayette, Levy, Marion, Putnam, Suwannee, Union
๐—œ๐˜€ ๐˜†๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ฟ ๐—ฐ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ป๐˜๐˜† ๐—ป๐—ผ๐˜ ๐—น๐—ถ๐˜€๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฑ? Find your CARD: http://card.ufl.edu/about-card/find-your-card/

๐—˜๐˜ƒ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐˜๐˜€ ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฑ ๐—ฝ๐—ผ๐˜€๐˜๐˜€ ๐—ฏ๐˜† ๐—ผ๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ๐—ฟ ๐—ฝ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐˜€ ๐—ฑ๐—ผ ๐—ป๐—ผ๐˜ ๐—ถ๐—บ๐—ฝ๐—น๐˜† ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฑ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐˜€๐—ฒ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐˜ ๐—ฏ๐˜† ๐—–๐—”๐—ฅ๐—— ๐—จ๐—™/ ๐—š๐—ฎ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ฒ๐˜€๐˜ƒ๐—ถ๐—น๐—น๐—ฒ. ๐—ช๐—ฒ ๐—ฟ๐—ฒ๐˜€๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐˜ƒ๐—ฒ ๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ ๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐—ด๐—ต๐˜ ๐˜๐—ผ ๐—ฟ๐—ฒ๐—บ๐—ผ๐˜ƒ๐—ฒ ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐˜† ๐—ฝ๐—ผ๐˜€๐˜๐˜€ ๐˜๐—ต๐—ฎ๐˜ ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐—ฒ ๐—ฑ๐—ฒ๐—ฒ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ฑ ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ฎ๐—ฝ๐—ฝ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ฝ๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ. ๐—ช๐—ฒ ๐—ฑ๐—ผ ๐—ป๐—ผ๐˜ ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฑ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐˜€๐—ฒ ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐˜† ๐—ฝ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ฑ๐˜‚๐—ฐ๐˜๐˜€ ๐—ผ๐—ฟ ๐˜€๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐˜ƒ๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐—ฒ๐˜€ ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป๐—ฒ๐—ฑ. The University of Florida welcomes your comments on our social media posts and encourages interaction among Gators around the world. We also encourage our community to foster respectful and vibrant online connections. Before you post, please consider the UF Core Values and review these UF Community Commenting Guidelines (โ€œGuidelinesโ€). We review all comments made and when necessary, we reserve the right to remove comments that are:
โ€“ Off-topic
โ€“ Containing links to third-party websites or content
โ€“ Made in violation of Florida or federal law
Comments made by outside users are the opinions of the authors, not of the university. By posting a comment on our social media pages, you agree to follow the University of Florida Community Commenting Guidelines, host social media channel Terms of Service, Florida and federal law, and UF regulations and policies โ€“ including but not limited to the universityโ€™s Acceptable Use of Computing Resources Policy. Your comments may be removed if they are in violation of these Guidelines.

Join us online today at 3:30pm for the first session on Communication!
01/08/2026

Join us online today at 3:30pm for the first session on Communication!

Strategies That Work Series

Join us online for a series of โ€œduo trainingsโ€ on important topics. Each month, we will highlight a specific area of consideration for home, therapy, school, and community environments. Attend them all or choose those that apply to you!

Behavior
Thursdays, September 4 & 18, 2025
3:30 โ€“ 4:30PM

Considerations for Students with Extensive Support Needs
Thursdays, October 2 & 16, 2025
3:30 โ€“ 4:30PM

Sensory/Motor Considerations
Thursdays, November 6 & 20, 2025
3:30 โ€“ 4:30PM

Communication
Thursdays, January 8 & 22, 2026
3:30 โ€“ 4:30PM

Social Skills
Thursdays, February 12 & 26, 2026
3:30 โ€“ 4:30PM

Teaching New Skills
Thursdays, March 12 & 26, 2026
3:30 โ€“ 4:30PM

https://card.ufl.edu/2025/06/25/strategies-that-work-series/

Sharing for National Down To Dance...Introducing Down to DanceDown to Dance is a inclusive dance program open to individ...
01/05/2026

Sharing for National Down To Dance...

Introducing Down to Dance
Down to Dance is a inclusive dance program open to individuals of all disabilities. Our mission is to build confidence, connection, and joy through movement. Our 9-week series is led by DIM-certified choreographers and inspired by Arts in Medicine science to create a supportive empowering space for everyone.

SPRING SERIES
Starts: January 25
When: Sundays 3-4 PM
Where: University of Florida
Cost: Completely FREE

Registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc7UgpPLFyVrkbydX-ppQoTGt8fa2PgEcCZYZ8HJgxcFv7lsg/viewform

Learn more about our organization at our website: https://down2dance.wixsite.com/universityofflorida

Together, we can keep the arts vibrant! Join us in making creativity thrive by supporting Autism in the Arts annual show...
01/01/2026

Together, we can keep the arts vibrant! Join us in making creativity thrive by supporting Autism in the Arts annual showcase.

"When my son was first diagnosed with autism, I felt overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. Our pediatrician recommended UF CARD, and it was a lifeline. Attending the orientation gave me clarity and hope, providing a clear understanding of the resources available to support my family. One of our most cherished memories was watching our son participate in the Arts Night showcase. The pride we felt when he played "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" on the xylophone is unforgettable. CARD creates opportunities for joy, connection, and celebrating every child's unique abilities." - Parent of a UF CARD Constituent

https://card.ufl.edu/about-card/donate-today/
(Image used with permission of artist, Steven Spitzer)

Together, We Can Make Every Voice Seen. Communication is more than wordsโ€”itโ€™s connection and belonging. For individuals ...
12/30/2025

Together, We Can Make Every Voice Seen. Communication is more than wordsโ€”itโ€™s connection and belonging. For individuals who rely on visual supports, every image is a bridge to understanding. Your gift makes these tools possible, ensuring that no voice goes unseen.

"When our teachers receive visuals from CARD, their faces light up like it is Christmas morning! CARD has wonderful templates, ideas, and customizes them for specific students and situations. Our students are able to be more independent and have better school experiences as a direct result of the many visual tools created by CARD." - Director of ESE/Student Services

https://card.ufl.edu/about-card/donate-today/
(Image used with permission of artist, Steven Spitzer)

Building Bridges Through Visual Communication. Imagine wanting to share your thoughts, needs, or feelingsโ€”but not having...
12/27/2025

Building Bridges Through Visual Communication. Imagine wanting to share your thoughts, needs, or feelingsโ€”but not having the words to do it. For many individuals with communication challenges, this is their daily reality. Visual supports provides a lifeline, turning silence into connection and isolation into presence. Your donation helps us create and provide these essential tools, giving every person the chance to be heard. Donate today and make communication possible-One voice at a time.

"CARD has had a substantial part in helping my students to learn to communicate. Visual supports have allowed proper communication to be taught and modelled in my classroom throughout the school day. I appreciate CARD and the Visual Supports Lab not only providing visual supports, but brainstorming and working to create specific visuals based on individual student and class needs. I'm so thankful for you!" - Teacher

https://card.ufl.edu/about-card/donate-today/
(Image used with permission of artist, Steven Spitzer)

Creativity needs YOU! Your donation keeps our arts program alive and inspiringโ€”donate today! Join us in making creativit...
12/24/2025

Creativity needs YOU! Your donation keeps our arts program alive and inspiringโ€”donate today! Join us in making creativity thrive by supporting Autism in the Arts annual showcase.

"This was our very first CARD event, and it was such a special experience for my 11-year-old son. He is very passionate about drawing, and Arts Night gave him the opportunity to share his work with others. For the first time, he was able to sell a piece of his artโ€”actually, he sold two! He couldnโ€™t believe it. At first, he was unsure about what to ask for his work, because we came simply to share his art, not expecting anything more. This moment shaped the way my son feels about his talent, and we see it as a real milestone in his life. Arts Night not only gave him joy but also confidence and validation as an artist. We are so thankful to CARD for making this possible."
- Parent of a UF CARD Constituent

https://card.ufl.edu/about-card/donate-today/
(Image used with permission of artist, Steven Spitzer)

Autism in the Arts mattersโ€” Art has the power to connect us beyond words. For many individuals with autism, creative exp...
12/19/2025

Autism in the Arts mattersโ€” Art has the power to connect us beyond words. For many individuals with autism, creative expression is a vital way to communicate and share their world. By contributing to this event, youโ€™re helping break barriers and foster understanding through the universal language of art.

โ€œI like the Annual Talent Show made by CARD. They give opportunity to showcase our talents. These talents are divided into categories: Fine Arts, Music, Performance such as dance or poetry. Everyone of every age can participate. It is really nice to see so much talent in one place! It is also nice to have the Barber Gators close the show! I am looking forward participating next yearโ€!
- Adult with ASD

https://card.ufl.edu/about-card/donate-today/
(Image used with permission of artist, Steven Spitzer)

Registration is open for the 17th Annual Stomp the Swamp for Autism Acceptance and Awareness which will be held at Ben H...
12/18/2025

Registration is open for the 17th Annual Stomp the Swamp for Autism Acceptance and Awareness which will be held at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Saturday, March 7th, 2026!

Autism the fastest-rising developmental disorder in the United States. At Stomp the Swamp, families of and individuals with autism or related disabilities, community members, and UF students, faculty and staff walk or run the stadium steps or loop to raise funds for the UF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UF CARD), North Central Floridaโ€™s First Choice for Autism Support.

Sponsorships are available!

https://card.ufl.edu/2025/12/15/stomp-the-swamp-for-autism-2025/

Artwork by Travis Ford

Autism in the Arts is more than a showcaseโ€”itโ€™s a celebration of talent, expression, and individuality. Every piece of a...
12/17/2025

Autism in the Arts is more than a showcaseโ€”itโ€™s a celebration of talent, expression, and individuality. Every piece of art tells a story, and every performance reflects unique talent. Your support helps us create a platform where these voices can shine.

โ€œThe Autism in the Arts event is something we eagerly anticipate each year. Attending this event was a great experience for our family in celebrating the creativity and unique talents of different gifted individuals. The artwork and performances are inspiring to everyone who attended. We recognize the sensory-friendly atmosphere that fosters understanding and empathy. Autism in the Arts highlights the importance of inclusive spaces where all talents can be appreciatedโ€
- Parent of a UF CARD Constituent

https://card.ufl.edu/about-card/donate-today/

(Image used with permission of artist, Steven Spitzer)

Mapping Out Special Needs Planning From Childhood Through AdulthoodMonday, February 2, 20266:00 โ€“ 7:30PMOnline or In Per...
12/16/2025

Mapping Out Special Needs Planning From Childhood Through Adulthood

Monday, February 2, 2026
6:00 โ€“ 7:30PM
Online or In Person*

An overview of the special needs planning roadmap, that will explore planning milestones, key planning phrases and documents, and risk factors to consider when exploring the right plan, taking into consideration the age and circumstances of the loved one with autism.

Details and link to registration:
https://card.ufl.edu/2025/09/03/mapping-out-special-needs-planning-from-childhood-through-adulthood/

**The deadline to register for the in-person option is 1/26/26.

Successful School/Home CommunicationThursday, January 29, 202611:00AM โ€“ 12:00PMOnlineParticipating in parent conferences...
12/16/2025

Successful School/Home Communication

Thursday, January 29, 2026
11:00AM โ€“ 12:00PM
Online

Participating in parent conferences and IEP meetings can sometimes be challenging. Come join us for resources in building a positive bridge between home and school communications.

Details and link to registration:
https://card.ufl.edu/2025/09/04/successful-school-home-communication2/

Homework HelpMonday, January 26, 202611:00AM โ€“ 12:00PMOnlineTraining DescriptionIn this session, tips, tricks and strate...
12/16/2025

Homework Help

Monday, January 26, 2026
11:00AM โ€“ 12:00PM
Online

Training Description
In this session, tips, tricks and strategies to assist learners at home with setting up the home learning space will be shared as well as discussion containing study skills, strategies, and ideas for assisting with homework completion.

Details and link to registration:
https://card.ufl.edu/2025/09/05/homework-help2/

Address

4101 NW 89th Boulevard, FL 32606
Gainesville, FL
32609

Opening Hours

Monday 1pm - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+13522652230

Alerts

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