A beacon of hope shines bright for Manteca families navigating the unique journey of raising children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Founded in April 2024, Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD is more than just a nonprofit organization — it’s a thriving community offering connection, encouragement, and resources to families in Manteca and surrounding Central Valley cities.
What began as a small playgroup with a handful of families quickly blossomed into a vital support network for children and caregivers alike, explains the organization’s CEO Monique Patton. At its inception, the group aimed to create inclusive spaces where children could develop social skills and practice positive behaviors among peers.
By August 2024, the organization was hosting events for nearly fifty children, including story times, arts and crafts sessions, park play dates, and festive gatherings at local pumpkin patches.
Recognizing the growing need for resources and support, the group officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization later that month. Since then, Manteca Moms has continued to expand its reach, fostering a community for over 100 families throughout the year, Patton said.
The organization’s mission is clear: to champion inclusion efforts across the region and provide families with free activities and events. From ice cream socials and holiday parties to arts and crafts and park outings, Manteca Moms prioritizes creating sensory-sensitive environments where children and families feel safe and supported.
In addition to social engagements, the group offers essential resources, such as school supply distributions and giveaways, helping alleviate the financial burden of Autism therapies. It also delivers virtual support to over 400 families, ensuring the broader ASD community feels empowered and informed, Patton said.
In its quest to build awareness, Manteca Moms has become a trusted voice for the growing ASD community in the Central Valley. Co-hosting events like Manteca’s first Autism Resource Fair & Spring Festival and the Walk for Autism in Lathrop, the organization brings together families, volunteers, and professionals to celebrate inclusion and share valuable information.
Workshops, held in accessible locations such as the Boys & Girls Club, provide educational resources to families and caregivers, bridging gaps in knowledge and offering opportunities for learning and growth.
For Patton, one of the founding members, the impact of Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD is deeply personal. Her four-year-old son has thrived in the group’s inclusive environments, gaining confidence in his social interactions and enhancing his speech. “He enjoys playing with other kids his age and learns positive behaviors from seeing the same families at most events,” Patton said. For many other families, the benefits extend beyond their children, fostering friendships, shared experiences, and mutual support in navigating the complexities of Autism.
