501(c)(3) public charity
We help parents and caregivers return to the workforce by addressing some of the roots of Autism: nutrition, activity, socialization, and training.
As a public charity, The Growing Roots Project provides practical, holistic support so families can thrive at home and succeed at work: We connect caregivers and families to resources, opportunities, and others to alleviate boundaries they face. We connect children and adults to earth through animals, soil, and fresh harvests. Because when the roots are strong, everything grows.
As a 501(c)(3) public charity, The Growing Roots Project provides practical, holistic support so families can thrive at home and succeed at work: We connect caregivers and families to resources, opportunities, and others to alleviate boundaries they face. We connect children and adults to earth through animals, soil, and fresh harvests. Because when the roots are strong, everything grows.
Our evidence-based, family-centered programs empower parents and caregivers to rebuild their careers while giving their children the foundational support they need to grow.
Through our signature Farm Roots Program, families experience the benefits of small-scale agriculture — combining nutrition, movement, social connection, and hands-on learning in one welcoming outdoor setting.
Strong Roots. Stronger Families. Brighter Futures.
To equip families raising children with autism with the nutritional, physical, social, and educational tools they need — so parents have a higher chance to return to the workforce and every child can reach their full potential.
We try to connect small farms with families to either take delivery of farm fresh goods for their children in need of a biodiverse diet or equip families to take some of the nutrient-dense farm foods home and empower them to grow resilient vegetables and cultivate eggs from resilient layers. A well-nourished body and brain create the energy families need to move forward.
Providing children and adults with productive physical activities—with a focus on programs designed for children with autism and sensory-friendly movement on immersive farm days—helps support regulation and development.
Community-building events, parent support circles, structured socialization opportunities for children, and connections strengthened through shared farm activities. We reduce isolation so families feel seen, supported, and part of something bigger.
Children take part in supervised, age-appropriate care for animals—feeding, gentle handling, and simple routines that build responsibility and confidence. Those hands-on moments add up to real life experience: patience, safety awareness, and everyday skills that help young people grow toward doing more on their own.
All programs are offered at no cost thanks to generous donors and community partners.
Growing Stronger Through Soil, Animals, and Fresh Harvests
At The Growing Roots Project, we believe real growth happens when children and families connect directly with nature. Our Farm Roots Program brings small groups to carefully selected family-scale farms (under 200 acres) where calm plants and animals create a living classroom for development, regulation, and joy.
All visits are supervised by trained staff or volunteers experienced with autism. Farms are pre-screened for safety, calmness, and accessibility. Sessions can be half-day or full-day, with transportation support for participating families when available.
From Soil to Table — Roots That Nourish the Whole Family
“Being on the farm helped my son open up in ways I hadn’t seen before. He’s more curious, eats better, and even talks about ‘his’ chickens at home.”
“Growing Roots didn’t just help me get my job back — they helped me feel like I could be both a great mom and a great professional again.”
5501 Balcones Dr A141
Austin, TX 78731
Online giving link coming soon.
