IMPACT Grant Approved - May 2025
May 2025 Rotary IMPACT Grant
Recipient: Yampa Valley Autism Program
Grant Amount: $15,000
Activity: Funding for the Neuronest. The Neuronest is a community-centered initiative designed to increase accessibility to sensory-friendly spaces and resources through:
1) A dedicated sensory room at YVAP’s office – Although YVAP has provided specialized
therapy, advocacy, and support to neurodivergent individuals for over 20 years, YVAP currently does not have a dedicated sensory room. Many of the children we serve experience intense sensory processing challenges—some even resort to self-harming behaviors such as banging their heads on the floor during moments of distress. A sensory room would offer a safe, calming, and therapeutic environment designed to support emotional regulation, promote focus, and reduce anxiety. This new space will be located in our office, offering personalized therapy, social skills training, and emotional regulation support in a familiar setting. It will be thoughtfully equipped with tools such as low-stimulation lighting, weighted items, tactile panels, noise-reducing elements, and
cozy, calming zones tailored to individual needs. Staff will use the room to guide children and
youth through sensory-based strategies, creating a bridge to more effective therapy sessions
and improved daily functioning.
2) A Sensory-Friendly Mobile Unit – A portable, flexible sensory resource that can be set up in
libraries, schools, community centers, and across Routt County. This unit will provide sensory
stations equipped with calming tools, fidget items, weighted blankets, adaptive seating, and
pop-up tents for quiet spaces, allowing neurodiverse individuals to access sensory support
wherever they need it most. The mobile option is especially critical for partner organizations that work with neurodivergent individuals but lack the financial means to build a sensory room of their own.
3) A Sensory Loan Program – A lending program that allows families to borrow sensory tools for home use, helping parents try before they buy and ensuring that children have access to critical resources that support self-regulation. Items available for loan will include weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, compression vests, fidget kits, sensory swings, and adaptive seating. This program is especially important for families who may not have the financial means to purchase these tools on their own, as well as those living in remote areas
who may not be able to visit YVAP regularly but still need access to quality sensory support.