By Krystle J Bailey
Isabelle Mosca of Ventnor, New Jersey, has been a fierce advocate for individuals with autism for over 20 years. As the founder of the non-profit organization, Faces 4 Autism, she continues to pour her heart and soul into the organization that has provided support to families for two decades.
When Isabelle’s son Kyle displayed what we now know as the early signs of autism, she did what any attentive mother would and took him to the pediatrician. At first “diagnosis,” she was told that her son was unusually attached and that she should consider picking up a part-time job. The mom of twins knew that something was not quite right and, using her motherly instincts, skipped the job pursuit and instead pursued another evaluation.
With Kyle’s official diagnosis of “Pervasive Development Disorder, NOS,” Isabelle was off to the races trying to understand how she could best help her son. Though her doctor wrongly asserted that Kyle would likely grow out of his diagnosis by the age of five, Isabelle dove head first into autism research. As she discovered more and more about autism, how to navigate a diagnosis, and ways to help her son, she felt led to share her findings.
One flyer posted in a local WaWa led to an organization that would go on to serve countless families throughout South Jersey. Isabelle knew she needed support and figured other parents navigating an autism diagnosis could lean on one another. The first support group meeting was flooded with over 200 attendees and made the front page of local news publications.
Twenty-one years later, Isabelle and her team continue to spread awareness and encourage acceptance as it relates to autism and those who live with a diagnosis. A long way from the internet-less days of 2002, Faces 4 Autism now offers live virtual conversations, interviews with experts, and a private support page online for families and caregivers. The support offered by the organization has expanded to include focused groups, including support for siblings, fathers, teens, caregivers, and more.
“The people who are a part of the organization have helped me so much,” explains Mosca. “People pour into me as much as I pour into them, and we are all lifted up. A lot of these parents are going through things they can’t explain to other people.”
Community advocacy and education are major components of Faces 4 Autism. The organization is responsible for a variety of awareness events, including the annual Bubbles 4 Autism Day and the Faces 4 Autism 5K. This month, in partnership with Adult Independent Services, Faces 4 Autism hosted a dance party for special needs teens. Upcoming workshops, seminars, and events can be found on the Faces 4 Autism website and social media pages.
Isabelle has expanded her reach with the launch of a podcast and blog, Life on the Bright Side, which focuses on the well-being of caregivers. Through her platform, Isabelle shines a light on the importance of caregivers prioritizing themselves and finding their life joy.
As Autism Awareness Month and the 21st anniversary of Faces 4 Autism kick off, Isabelle remains as excited as she was in 2002 to share her story, spread awareness, and encourage autism acceptance.
The whole Mosca family has been involved in the growth and evolution of Faces 4 Autism. Isabelle’s husband and co-founder of the organization Ken Mosca has been instrumental in fundraising for events and activities, including the annual Stand Up For Autism comedy fundraiser in July. Kyle’s twin sister wrote two books that encourage autism awareness and acceptance. Together, along with other families affected by autism, the Mosca family creates space for love, encouragement, support, and autism education throughout South Jersey.
“I would encourage anyone who has concerns or is wondering about their child to reach out to us,” shares Mosca. “The best advice I’ve gotten over the years has been from other parents.”
Get involved, learn more, and stay up to date at Faces4Autism.org.
Krystle J Bailey is a multimedia journalist, author and poet. Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5
