Mobile Accommodation Zone-making events ACCESSIBLE

Our History

Southside Support, Inc. was founded in 2011 by a group of mothers of autistic children who felt isolated and alone and were looking for resources to help them navigate their caregiving journey.  What started as a Facebook group for caregivers to share challenges, wins, and to obtain support, has grown to a community of over 5,000 parents, caregivers, and resource providers on an active, moderated, group support page.  

This virtual village has grown to include monthly in-person support groups, education sessions, training opportunities, and inclusive fun gatherings for the individuals in our community who often feel left out.

This year, in 2023, we have provided families with a free Symposium Event featuring over 25 speakers and panelists and we’ve hosted monthly educational/networking event gatherings that have included a “MOBILITY MAKEOVER” providing free mobility devices to those in need, and a “DADS EVENT” featuring a panel of fathers at Line Creek Brewery sharing their challenges and successes as caregivers.  To learn more about us, please visit www.southsidesupport.org.

With the help of local community grants, we hope to continue to provide meaningful, free, or low-cost support services and inclusion opportunities for families and individuals with special needs.  

Our Current Project

Southside Support, Inc. is deeply committed to creating accessible and inclusive communities for individuals with special needs and their families on the southside of Atlanta. We are currently seeking support for our most significant fundraising project - the acquisition of a wheelchair-accessible pull-behind RV that will serve as a Mobile Accommodation Zone at community events.

A mobile accommodation zone will foster an inclusive community where individuals of all ages and abilities can participate in events with independence, equity, and dignity. By providing accessible events and activities, we enable individuals with disabilities to contribute their wisdom and talent, strengthening the fabric of our community.

The new wheelchair-accessible RV will provide the following: 

• a sensory-safe space with soothing videos and activities to ease overstimulated meltdowns, 
• comfort and privacy for tube feeding, nursing mothers, and adult diaper changing,
• a temperature-controlled environment, and
• refrigeration for storing medications and other necessities. 

Our extensive support network, comprising over 5,000 families in our online support group and more than 4,000 newsletter recipients, has expressed the tremendous impact and importance of our previous mobile accommodation bus. With your generous support, we aim to make this dream a reality once again.  DONATE HERE or on our WEBSITE

Our Projected Expenses: 

We are seeking funds for two initial key expenses of the project. The purchase of the RV itself, which amounts to approximately $35,000, will be a crucial investment in making our community events more accessible for families caring for loved ones with special needs. Additionally, we are planning to wrap the RV with visuals that highlight the accommodation services provided. This wrap will not only increase the visibility of the RV but also offer marketing opportunities for our generous community partners. For contributions of at least $10,000, partners can showcase their name or company logo on the RV, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities.

Finally, to ensure the seamless operation of the RV and its attendance at one event per month, we have estimated the following annual expenses:

• Gas Expenses: $250
• Insurance Costs: $2,500
• Driver Expenses: $1,500

Your support is important:

Your support in this endeavor will play a pivotal role in ensuring that individuals with special needs, along with their caregivers, can experience meaningful moments and invaluable connections at community events.

We kindly request your organization's support in helping us. 

Thank you for considering our grant request to assist us in the acquisition of a wheelchair-accessible pull-behind RV. 

We would be delighted to discuss this opportunity further or provide any additional information you may need. Together, let us make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.

Thank you for your consideration,

Southside Support, Inc., a 501c3 Registered Charity #45-2602920

director@southsidesupport.org | (803) 261-5370 | www.southsidesupport.org