DC-AC Family Advisory Group

Ward 1

Firtuna Bitsuamlak

My daughter is 7 years old and was diagnosed with autism in 2021.

I look forward to being a DC Autism Collaborative Family Advisory Group Member because I want to help parents better understand autism and find the support they need, especially during early years. I know finding the right services and information can be confusing for families especially in my community.

I hope to help make the process less confusing and more accessible by connecting families with helpful information, services and resources they need. I want to use my experience as a parent to support other families and help them feel more informed and supported.

Ward 6

April Gillens

I have two children, ages 4 and 6, diagnosed with autism in 2025 and 2023, respectively.

I am excited to join the DC Autism Collaborative Family Advisory Group because it gives me the opportunity to share my experience caring for a disabled child with other parents navigating similar challenges. I hope to advocate for enhanced services for families experiencing autism and raise awareness on early diagnosis and intervention.

Ward 8

Octavia Hammond

My child was diagnosed with autism in 2026 at the age of 10.

I'm excited about being a part of the DC Autism Collaborative Family Advisory Group as a member because I've heard so many families have the opportunity of getting early intervention, however I was not as fortunate. I believe my experience finding out later will bring so much to the group and to other families.

Ward 6

Aisha Parker

I am the mother of two wonderful children on the autism spectrum. My youngest is 3 and was diagnosed in 2024.

I look forward to being a DC Autism Collaborative Family Advisory Group Member, because I am committed to lightening the load for other parents and caregivers by advocating for systems that truly support every child’s unique needs. My mission is to build a more inclusive, informed and compassionate community for all children with autism and the families who love them.

Ward 5

Portia Quarles Ross

My son is 5 years old and was diagnosed with autism in 2024.

I look forward to serving on the DC Autism Collaborative Family Advisory Group because my family’s experience has shown me how important it is for caregivers to feel informed, supported and heard. I hope to help improve how families find and navigate services, and advocate for care that is accessible, coordinated and responsive to their needs.

Ward 5

Samantha Shevitz

My child is 5 years old and was diagnosed with autism in 2025.

I look forward to being a DC Autism Collaborative Family Advisory Group Member because I am passionate about helping families navigate the complex systems. Every family should have access to the resources available and receive support rather than roadblocks when they suspect or receive an autism diagnosis. I hope to contribute by advocating for more awareness and access to early intervention services and stronger support for families throughout their journey.

Ward 3

Chantey Thompson

My son is 6 years old and was diagnosed with autism in 2022. My daughter is 5 years old and was diagnosed with autism in 2024.

I look forward to being a DC Autism Collaborative Family Advisory Group Member because I truly believe that providing tools and reassurance to families while navigating through the challenges of having a child(ren) on the spectrum is essential (we are a team)! Our children are the future! While in this position, I have the role of advocating and spreading awareness, but I can also learn from others and strengthen my knowledge on the realities of autism. Autism is not a disability but a different ability!

Ward 7

Darria Turner

I am the parent of a 7-year-old son who was diagnosed with autism in 2021.

As a member of the DC Autism Collaborative Family Advisory Group, I am passionate about advocating for more accessible, equitable and coordinated services for autistic children and their families. Through my own family's experiences navigating healthcare, education and support services, I recognize the challenges families often face in accessing the resources their children need. I am committed to using my experiences and perspective to help strengthen family-centered systems, reduce barriers to services and ensure that families' voices are heard and valued.

Ward 5

Erika Williams

My grandchild is 34 months and was diagnosed with autism in January 2025. It has been a journey with highs and lows. Going from feeling alone and helpless to feeling heard, supported and confident.

I am honored to have met and connected with wonderful people within my Cohort and to continue being a DC Autism Collaborative Family Advisory Group Member. I learned so much and look forward to learning even more. It is rewarding being a valuable part of something that promotes change and or initiates discussions and considerations that will and can be in the best interest for our children, families and communities. Let the next steps continue!