Act4Me

For the past 16 years, Act4Me has been dedicated to supporting children with neurological and genetic disabilities from low-income, uninsured, and underserved families in Miami-Dade. Neurological and genetic disorders such as Epilepsy, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Cerebral Palsy have no cure, but speech, occupational, and physical therapy are proven to dramatically improve a child’s development, independence, and overall quality of life. These therapies help children build communication and mobility skills, equipping them to overcome social, physical, and communicative barriers and opening the door to a brighter future.

Unfortunately, in our imperfect healthcare system, therapy remains out of reach for many. Most families do not qualify for Medicaid, and private therapy costs average more than $200 per hour. Many children with disabilities fall into the gap—unable to afford private care yet ineligible for public assistance. Act4Me closes this gap, ensuring equity by making life-changing therapies accessible to children who would otherwise go without them. Since 2009, we have served as a safety net for more than 375 South Florida families, providing their children the chance to thrive and reach their fullest potential.

Act4Me grants are awarded on the basis of financial need. Each year, parents and caregivers apply for therapy support, and applications are reviewed by a screening panel of therapists and parents. As funding allows, grants are awarded on a rolling basis. Qualifying families receive $4,000 annually—equivalent to one hour or two 30-minute therapy sessions each week for a full year. Families are free to choose their therapy center among the ones with which Act4Me pre-negotiates services at the Medicaid rate ($81.32/hr) to maximize impact. Progress is monitored quarterly through reports and attendance reviews, and families may reapply at the end of each term to continue building long-term outcomes for their children.

While our program is open to children ages 1–18 in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, the majority of participants are ages 4–10 from low-income families in Miami-Dade. In addition to therapy grants, Act4Me provides equipment assistance for essential items such as wheelchairs, walkers, therapy devices, prostheses, and more. We believe no child should be deprived of the therapies and tools they need to live a healthier, more independent life. Neurological and genetic disorders do not discriminate by race, ethnicity, or sex — and neither does Act4Me.