For more than two decades, Inspire ND has served as a guiding force for families navigating autism and other forms of neurodiversity in the Lake Houston community. Originally founded as Including Kids, the organization began with early intervention services for children on the spectrum. Today, Inspire ND works to build truly inclusive communities through two central pillars: engagement and education.
On the engagement side, the nonprofit provides families with safe spaces to connect and experience joy without fear of judgment. These gatherings include the Halloween Bash, Pictures with Santa Holiday Festival, and autism-friendly bingo nights. For more information or to volunteer at this year's upcoming events, Inspire ND welcomes community involvement throughout the year. Whether helping with stations at the AUSOME egg hunt and spring carnival, or supporting the Taste of the Town fundraiser.
The education pillar focuses on strengthening the broader community's understanding of neurodiversity. Inspire ND provides training for first responders, businesses, churches, caregivers, and schools, enabling them to learn how to effectively support individuals with autism or other neurodiverse needs. Their work in neurodiversity in the workplace is especially impactful. With so many people on the spectrum underemployed or unemployed, Inspire ND teaches employers how minor adjustments in hiring, communication, and work expectations can open doors for capable and motivated employees. Through every program, training, and event, Inspire ND's goal remains clear and consistent. The organization aims to foster a community that values the unique strengths of neurodiverse individuals. Supporting others and their needs, it welcomes them with compassion and understanding.
The organization hosts a podcast titled "Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism." CEO Jennifer Dantzler credits much of the podcast's impact to the sponsors like Amanda Petree- JLA Realty, Stander & Company, Tin Roof BBQ, Trey Hill- Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Lake Houston Family YMCA, Frost Bank Humble, Diana Coleman and Karen Fahrmeier with Keller Williams Northeast, Imperato-Fazzino Real Estate Group, DJ Brothers, and the City of Humble. Episodes feature professionals, parents, and individuals across the neurotype spectrum who share insight, encouragement, and real-life experiences.
Looking ahead, Jennifer shared that one of her deepest passions is helping young adults move into adulthood with dignity and real support. Many neurodiverse individuals are fully capable of working and thriving, but they often need clear expectations, visual communication, or minor adjustments to succeed. She has witnessed firsthand how a simple change in structure can transform someone's ability to stay employed and feel valued. That personal perspective fuels the Inspire ND workplace training program, which gives businesses the practical tools to support neurodiverse employees. The results have already created life-changing success stories for local companies, including Chick-fil-A Wilson/Beltway 8, Insperity, the Rotary Club of Lake Houston, and the Humble Noon Lions.
A need for support, repeatedly heard from families and neurodiverse individuals, highlights a gap that still exists within churches and community spaces. Many families want to attend services or events, but worry their child or young adult may struggle in the unfamiliar settings or face judgment if they become overwhelmed. For Jennifer, helping churches and community events learn how to welcome neurodiverse individuals is not just another program; it's a passion. It is a personal mission to ensure that families feel welcomed and not excluded from these places of worship and connection.
Something Jennifer says has been a game-changer is technology. After hearing from parents who could not attend in-person sessions, Jennifer and her team shifted to a virtual Lunch and Learn model for their workshops and created a library of free online training resources. This allows parents to access support whenever and wherever is convenient to their schedules.
Their goal is simple: meet people where they are and create more pathways for understanding for all neurotypes. Jennifer and the team at Inspire ND believe in a future where all are accepted. It's about strengthening confidence, easing isolation, equipping businesses with a genuine understanding, and ensuring that every individual and family knows they are never alone on this journey. To learn more, get involved, or sign up to support an upcoming events, visit inspireND.org.
"If we can help even one person feel understood and valued, then we are moving toward the community we all deserve." Jennifer reflects, "We want everyone we work with to know they are seen, they are supported, and they have a place where they belong."