May 14, 2025

Tampa Bay Advances in Autism Care and Community Growth

News Summary

Tampa Bay is witnessing significant developments in autism care, business expansion, and community recognition. The opening of an ABA center for autism, enhancements in telehealth services, and community achievements highlight the city’s commitment to inclusivity and healthcare. Standout figures in the community have received accolades, and local enterprises are expanding to better serve residents. These efforts collectively position Tampa Bay as a hub for both medical advancement and social inclusivity.

Tampa Bay Welcomes New Developments in Autism Care, Business, and Community Recognition

Tampa, Florida, is experiencing significant advancements in autism care, business expansions, and community recognition efforts. These developments underscore the city’s commitment to healthcare, economic growth, and inclusivity.

ABA Centers of Florida has officially opened its inaugural autism care center in Tampa. Spanning 14,300 square feet, the facility aims to provide individualized applied behavior analysis therapy, effectively reducing wait times for diagnosis and treatment services for individuals with autism disorder. This establishment represents a crucial step in addressing the urgent need for specialized care in the region.

Meanwhile, in the healthcare sector, Hyde Park Capital has announced the acquisition of VitalTech by CoachCare. This move is expected to enhance remote patient monitoring and care management capabilities. Such advancements align with current trends in telehealth services and the increasingly vital role of technology in patient care.

On the business front, Bank of America has expanded its presence by opening a new financial center and drive-thru ATM in Tampa’s Town ‘n’ Country neighborhood, adding to the financial options available to local residents. Additionally, Fifth Third Bank celebrated the launch of a new location in Lutz, complete with a ribbon-cutting event.

In the realm of community achievements, several notable figures have received recognition. Santiago C. Corrada, CEO of Visit Tampa Bay, has been appointed to the U.S. Travel Association’s executive board for a two-year term, reflecting his influence on the tourism sector. Additionally, Janette Carter Baker, VP of marketing at Visit Tampa Bay, was honored as one of HSMAI’s 2024 “Top 25 Extraordinary Minds” for her impactful contributions towards enhancing tourism in the area. Similarly, Angelique Lenox has made history by becoming the first Black woman to chair the North Tampa Bay Chamber starting in 2025.

The Glazer Children’s Museum also achieved a significant milestone by ranking No. 10 in USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards, marking its first national recognition and highlighting the center’s commitment to engaging learning experiences for children.

In a celebration of local stories and cultures, Symphonic Distribution has launched “Tírame Por Face,” a Spanish-language podcast hosted by Jennifer Mota. The podcast aims to spotlight Latin Urbano music artists, thus enriching the artistic landscape of Tampa Bay.

Furthermore, Moffitt Cancer Center has opened the first Nikon Center of Excellence for advanced imaging and cancer research, pioneering efforts that could greatly impact cancer treatment and research in the region. Concurrently, Moffitt’s subsidiary, Speros FL, is developing a global innovation life sciences campus, further establishing Tampa Bay as a hub for medical research and innovation.

The Tampa General Hospital also recently launched a dedicated Military & Veteran Primary Care Center, providing exclusive healthcare services tailored specifically for veterans and active service members, enhancing support for those who have served in the military.

The Florida Autism Center of Excellence hosted its first prom for students, themed “The Neurodiverse Universe,” to celebrate neurodiversity, while local sports teams, including USF men’s and women’s basketball programs, dedicated games to autism awareness, promoting inclusion within the community. Additionally, the Neurodiversity Night held by the Lightning featured guest speaker Haley Moss, showcasing community efforts towards autism advocacy.

In the fashion industry, designer Aarushi Pratap, who has autism, is gaining recognition for her work. She participated in Tampa Bay Fashion Week, alongside showcasing designs at a national pageant. Pratap describes her autism as a “superpower” that fuels her passion to express herself through fashion.

As the region continues to grow, Tampa Bay is not only expanding its services and business opportunities but also enhancing its commitment to community well-being and inclusivity.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Mesa, Arizona Celebrates Fifth Anniversary as Autism Certified City
Roper Technologies to Acquire CentralReach for $1.65 Billion

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER

The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!

STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER

Stay Connected

More Updates

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit