ABOUT AFC

WHO WE ARE

Autism Families CONNECTicut was founded in January 2010 by a group of parents, grandparents and family members who recognized that there were limited weekend recreational and social activities specifically targeted to children on the autism spectrum in Connecticut. Initially, to fill that gap, the focus was on providing programming for children on the spectrum, ages 5-12. While still the focus, programming has since expanded to include preschoolers ages 3-5, teens ages 13-19, and young adults ages 20-35 on the autism spectrum, as well as siblings and parents when appropriate.

Programs are locally based, high quality, low cost, accessible to families and run by professionals. Every program is held in a safe, non-judgmental environment, designed to encourage children, teens, and young adults who attend to have fun, get active and make friends. Most programs are primarily on the weekends and are multi week long.

Autism Families CONNECTicut is registered as a non-profit, exempt organization as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

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Our Origin Story

The story of Autism Families CONNECTicut began with a single family’s vision and determination to make a difference. Leah Moon and her daughter Jackie Procyk, motivated by their experiences with Jackie’s son Jack, identified a lack of inclusive and engaging activities for children on the autism spectrum in their community. Their passion and advocacy became the foundation of AFC, which has since grown from serving a handful of children to welcoming hundreds of participants each year.

Jack’s journey highlights the impact of AFC’s programs. As a child, he participated in Playing on the Spectrum, forming lasting connections. He continued his involvement through Teen Night, where he grew alongside peers with similar experiences. Now, as a young adult in the Young Adult Hangout program, Jack reconnects with friends from earlier years, reflecting the enduring community and support AFC provides.

The organization’s first programs were small yet impactful, bringing families together and creating opportunities for children to socialize and thrive in environments designed specifically for their needs. What began as a deeply personal mission has transformed into a movement, connecting tens of thousands of individuals and families over 15 years. By reflecting on its beginnings, AFC celebrates the families who inspired its creation and the enduring connections formed through its programs.

OUR VISION

A world where all children and teens on the autism spectrum have access to recreational, social and educational activities as an integral part of enjoying a full, balanced, well-rounded life experience.

OUR MISSION

We CONNECT individuals on the autism spectrum to each other by providing recreational, social and learning opportunities as we build a meaningful, active and engaged community for their families.

OUR CORE VALUES

We desire that all children and teens on the autism spectrum…

feel a sense of belonging and are accepted within a group of their peers, where they fit in, are comfortable and seen as equals.
increase their confidence and grow in the belief that they can accomplish whatever they set out to do.
experience personal growth as they increase their skills and abilities through a variety of social activities designed to capture their interests.
explore their creativity through fun activities where they can interact with peers and express themselves freely.
express their playfulness by having opportunities to enjoy fun programs that promote a healthy, active lifestyle.

We desire that individuals on the autism spectrum and their families…

build a supportive community and form valuable, lasting connections through a variety of shared activities.