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On July 9, 2009, Project Independence partnered with Gulf Island Waterpark in Gulfport, Ms.to offer
a day of fun for families along the Gulf Coast who are caring for a family member diagnosed with autism.

This event provided an opportunity for 47 individuals with autism and their families to enjoy the beautiful
park and interact with others who share the same experiences. Often, due to unexpected behaviors in social settings,
families and their autistic kids will choose to stay isolated at home instead of attempting to try something new with their
loved ones. Not only did parents get a much needed break they also connected with parents,therapists and counselors.

A special thanks goes out to Gulf Island Waterpark who welcomed our group with open arms. We look forward
to next year.

In 2003, Project Independence was founded by Carol Mesa for the purpose of raising awareness and creating resources for families caring for a family member diagnosed with Autism. Her teenage son, Tony, was diagnosed with Autism in his elementary years. The Mesa family was not prepared for the regressive capability of this disorder as Tony matured. The constant strain on the family was overwhelming. Carol was compelled to create an organization that would offer support for families in Louisiana, as well as improve the quality of life for Tony and the autism community.

Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder in the U.S., affecting 1 in 110 children. Autism is a neurological disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate, to reason and interact with others causing extreme behaviors. Currently, there are no effective means to prevent autism and no known cause or cure for this mysterious affliction.

Project Independence is strictly a volunteer organization.

Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright, grandparents of a child with autism. Since then, Autism Speaks has grown into the nation's largest autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. We are proud of what we've been able to accomplish and look forward to continued successes in the years ahead.

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