PALS (Providing Autism Links & Support) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to serving the autism community across Central Florida. Founded in 2002 by a group of passionate parents whose children were registered with the newly opened University of Central Florida Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (UCF-CARD), PALS was created to provide opportunities that go beyond the services CARD could offer.

From the very beginning, our mission has been to empower individuals with autism and their families through social, educational, and community-based programs. We work closely with UCF students, who are supervised by the PALS Program Manager and supported by autism spectrum disorder specialists at UCF-CARD. This unique collaboration allows us to deliver high-quality programming across all ages while keeping costs accessible.

As a parent-founded organization, we understand the challenges of raising and supporting a loved one with autism. Every program we create is designed to foster growth, independence, and connection within the community. Thanks to the generosity of donors and the commitment of our volunteers, all funds raised remain in Central Florida, directly benefiting the families we serve. Donations are tax-deductible according to Florida state law.