The Story Behind Oak & Hive

"WHY is there no one to talk to?" I whined my husband after our son was diagnosed with autism in 2022. And then again when we were trying to determine school options for him. "I just wish I had someone to bounce ideas off of…guide me to help figure out what to do!"

Many months later, a friend reached out, asking about inclusive preschool options for her child. I couldn’t wait to help her. As I reflected on how many times I’d been asked for advice since Jake had been diagnosed—whether it was about getting an evaluation, building a neuro-affirming team, or finding the best resources for neurodiverse care—I realized something: I loved being able to help.

Truthfully… I craved it.

Anytime I saw a Facebook post of a mom in need of a resource I jumped in and shared all I knew.

Anytime a mom wrote desperately seeking community I happily introduced myself.

Over the past two and a half years, I’d become a resource for so many others, and it brought me immense joy to see how the referrals I shared made a difference in children’s lives. Receiving messages like, "Sammy is thriving at xyzzy!" after helping connect a family to the right care felt like receiving a million dollars into my soul.

It was these moments that confirmed that I was on the right path—creating a space where families could not only receive support but also thrive in their unique journeys.

And one day, it hit me… I wanted to be the help I once searched for.

This was my silver lining. My purpose.

And the work I wanted to do? It didn’t exist yet.

So, I needed to build it.

Why Oak & Hive?

The Oak symbolizes roots, strength, and growth, providing a foundation that families need to support their children’s success. Just as the oak tree grows from deep roots, Oak & Hive helps families establish that solid foundation—starting with the right resources, leading to growth and transformation. The branches of the oak tree represent the pathways we build together, each branch a different journey, uniquely suited to the individual needs of every family.

The Hive is about community, connection, and collaboration. Just as bees work together in harmony to build a thriving hive, Oak & Hive brings together families, providers, and experts, creating a network of support and knowledge. At Oak & Hive, we believe that community is essential for growth and healing.

The Bee represents transformation. I’ve had a lifelong fear of bees, and when I first started this journey with my son, that fear mirrored my fear of autism—something unknown and intimidating. Black wasps buzzed around my house starting in Spring 2022 and have come back time and time again. I’ve come to understand, bees are a symbol of growth and change. They show how something that starts small can actually create big transformations. In the same way, embracing neurodiversity can lead to profound personal, familial, and societal change. What we fear most can often lead us to our greatest breakthroughs.