Local organization starts new initiative to help children with autism socialize
August 14th, 2025
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) – Andrew Baker said his autism has impacted every aspect of his life, from keeping a job to socializing with others.
“There’s a lot of people out there who understand where you’re coming from, and there’s a lot of people out there who don’t understand but really should.”
President and CEO of the Indiana Autism Alliance Scott Garner wants to make it easier for people like Baker to socialize with his peers, which is why he started an initiative to make popular Fort Wayne areas more sensory-friendly.
He said he views this program as a form of therapy.
“The earlier we get these kids into therapy, like applied behavorial analysis, and we get them into like a structured therapy, the better off they’ll be in the future, and they’ll be more likely to make it as an adult instead of having to live in a long-term placement facility,” he said.
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2025 Autism Acceptance Walk
September 7, 2025
12:00pm – 3:30pm
Allen County Fair Grounds
2726 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46748
Create a team and join us RAIN OR SHINE on Sunday, September 7, 2025 at the Allen County Fairgrounds 2726 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46748 from noon-3:30pm. It’s an afternoon of activities and resources for the whole family- including supports for those of all ages on the autism spectrum. It’s free to park and attend so come out for the fun. This year’s unity walk will start at 3 p.m. and end after the walk is completed.
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House of Pins
2010 Sundown Ln,
Fort Wayne, IN 46808
House of Pins is a private 4,000 Sq. Ft. recreational building that houses a 2 FULL Lane BOWLING ALLEY, karaoke, billiards, air hockey, foosball, 102″ and 88′ TV screens, and so much more!!!
This intimate space is for families, friends or local businesses who are desiring a unique, exclusive location for entertainment.
House of Pins also serves those who would not otherwise have the opportunities to experience bowling in the traditional capacity. Regardless of age or ability, our ADA compliant, sensory friendly, limited capacity environment solidifies our inclusion model.
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Boundless Playground: Taylor’s Dream
North River Road
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Boundless Playgrounds is the leading nonprofit developer of truly inclusive playgrounds where children of all abilities gain the important developmental and physical benefits of unstructured play.
“This playground is even better than I imagined, and I know it’s because so many people worked together to make it a reality,” said creator Taylor Reuille. “Now my friend Mallory, who was my inspiration for this playground, can play with all the other kids. No one has to sit by the sidelines and feel left out anymore.”
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Kreager Park
7225 N River Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46815
Recreation area with ball & soccer fields, tennis courts, playgrounds plus an open air pavilion.
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