PA Inclusive announced the formal transition of its autism-focused sensory gym, formally Turn to Us, to Supporting Autism and Families Everywhere (S.A.F.E.), a long-standing nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with autism and their families.

The transition ensures uninterrupted access to trusted resources, advocacy and inclusive programming for families throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.

S.A.F.E. Inc. will continue and expand this vital work by providing community resources, educational programs, family events, parent support groups and access to its sensory gym — serving as a welcoming hub for individuals on the autism spectrum and their caregivers.

“Transferring the sensory gym to S.A.F.E. reflects our commitment to long-term sustainability and impact,” said Frank Bartoli, president and CEO of PA Inclusive. “S.A.F.E.’s history, deep community roots, and family-centered mission make them a natural steward of this work.”

Founded in 1995, S.A.F.E. began as a small group of families seeking connection, understanding and shared resources. Over the past three decades, the organization has grown into a robust regional support system offering education, advocacy, family programming, extracurricular activities and inclusive opportunities for children and families within the autism community.

S.A.F.E.’s mission is to support and empower families affected by autism spectrum disorders by identifying services and activities tailored to their unique needs while fostering inclusion within both the local community and the broader ASD community. This mission is grounded in the belief that individuals with autism can lead full, purposeful and fulfilling lives.

“We are incredibly excited to get the sensory gym back up and running and to continue providing meaningful support to our community,” said Malinda Knipfer, executive director of S.A.F.E. Inc.

“Having empowering services available in Carbon County creates a space where families and individuals with autism can gather, learn and engage — knowing they are not alone.”

Families currently engaged with PA Inclusive — affiliated autism programming can expect a seamless transition, with continued collaboration between S.A.F.E. and PA Inclusive to ensure stability, continuity of services and long-term growth for the families they serve.

PA Inclusive’s mission is to help create and support inclusive and sustainable lives for people with disabilities. PA Inclusive supports individuals and families in Luzerne, Lackawanna, Wyoming, Carbon, Monroe, Pike, Berks, Montgomery, Bucks, Lehigh, Northampton and Columbia counties. To learn more, visit https://www.painclusive.org

Supporting Autism and Families Everywhere is a nonprofit organization founded in 1995 to support and empower families affected by autism spectrum disorders through advocacy, education, resources, and inclusive community programming.

To learn more, visit https://autismsafe.org