2024 Bright Beacon Awards
Bright Feats Publications has had the honor of working alongside of dedicated service providers in the Special Needs community for more than 17 years. In that time, we have come to see greatness shine for those we serve and are grateful for the contribution of each of our partners. Many times, this work is far beyond a job and is a calling. This year we would like to give special recognition to a few of the providers that have gone above and beyond in helping this community thrive in 2024.
Outstanding Special Needs Therapist Award
First Step Therapy
First Step Therapy provides physical, occupational, speech and applied behavior analysis (ABA). Services are provided in the community, schools, daycares and our clinic locations. We also provide intensive therapy for feeding, sensory, Therasuit, DMI and more.
Pediatric Therapy Achievement Award
Achieve Pediatrics Therapy
Achieve Pediatric Therapy provides pediatric OT, PT, ABA and Music Therapy services to children birth to 21 years of age. Achieve has been serving children and families in central Florida since 2007. Their mission is to empower children, serve families and enhance lives through compassionate and individualized care. Please contact us to discuss your child's specific needs!
Inclusive Employment Champion
The Arc of Jacksonville
The Arc Jacksonville serves and advocates for individuals with intellectual and developmental differences to achieve their full potential and to participate in community life. We offer a full range of education, employment, residential, and family support services.
Inclusive Ministry Pioneer
Fruit Cove Baptist Church
Sharing Hope is a monthly faith-based support group for families of children with special needs regardless of diagnosis and age. Together we share the struggles, joys, and victories of special needs parenting, while finding hope and strength in our unexpected journeys.
Excellence in Specialized Healthcare Award
Visual Health & Learning Center
Specialty optometric practice dedicated to diagnosing and treating vision problems that interfere with reading, learning and activities of daily living. Does your child struggle with reading or schoolwork? We treat the cause, not the symptom. Now offering Virtual Vision Therapy!
Advocate for Inclusive Education
Alpine Academy
Serving children with Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, PDD-NOS, ADHD, ADD, SLD, Down Syndrome, children with academic challenges, and children without a specific diagnosis. ABA, Occupational, and speech therapies, and extracurricular activities are all offered.
Family Support Hero Award
Central Florida Early Steps
Florida's early intervention system that supports, educates, and coaches families of eligible children, who have or are at risk for developmental disabilities, or delays in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties. Income isn't a factor in eligibility. Families do not incur out of pocket expenses. Medicaid and insurance are billed with permission.
Inclusive Arts and Culture Award
St. John & Friends
St. John & Friends is a musical group passionate about live music and the power of performance. St. John is a young man with intellectual differences who shares his voice through music. We perform jazz, contemporary and classical pieces in, around and outside Jacksonville.
Champion of Inclusion Award
Vincent's Clubhouse
Vincent's Clubhouse offers inclusive and engaging social events, support groups, and advocacy programs for families. Our annual Flagler County summer camp for children and young adults with autism and related disabilities provides a safe and accepting opportunity to experience camp.
Empowerment Through Sports Award
Freedom Sailing Camp
Freedom Sailing Camp provides safe, enriching, and affordable sailing for individuals within the autism spectrum. It allows them to explore and develop social skills that will empower them to continue their survival in the community, to strengthen their self-esteem and to help them become self sufficient individuals.