Who we are

Two moms, connected by the neurodivergent world, found friendship through the bond of their sons. What began as a connection between two boys has grown into a powerful support system between their families. Navigating the challenges of neurodiversity can be overwhelming, but the right friendships and community make all the difference. This annual Golf Tournament has not only brought us closer together but has deepened our connection to a community that truly cares. Join us each year as we raise awareness and funds for children with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). Together, we can make a meaningful impact.

Our journey into the neurodiverse world began in 2020 when our son was diagnosed with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). At the time, we knew very little about this condition or the path ahead. Navigating his needs felt like solving a complex puzzle—one that came with limited resources, little guidance, and no public funding. Yet, early and consistent speech therapy is critical for children with CAS to succeed.

As a family deeply involved in the golf community, we decided to take action by creating GOLF FORE APRAXIA—an initiative to raise awareness and funds for children with CAS and their families.

In 2021, our son TJ was also diagnosed with Autism and Global Developmental Delay. It was through this journey that we found IBI Behavioural Services Inc. and Amanda, who played a pivotal role in his early intervention. The combination of one-on-one ABA therapy and ongoing speech therapy made a remarkable difference in TJ’s progress.

Today, TJ attends Unique Minds Academy (UMA)—a school dedicated to supporting neurodivergent children. After completing his first full year, we’ve seen an incredible boost in his self-confidence. UMA also offers inclusive summer camps that help maintain structure and routine, which are so important for our family.

Witnessing TJ’s growth has inspired us to keep going—to raise awareness, support other families, and help make vital therapies accessible to all children, regardless of financial barriers.

We are incredibly proud to partner with Amanda Baysarowich, a dedicated advocate for neurodivergent children and the founder of Unique Minds Academy—a specialized private school in Barrie designed to support neurodiverse learners.

Amanda’s journey began in 2008, when she started working as a one-on-one therapist for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Simcoe County. Her passion and commitment quickly grew, and so did the need. She expanded her services as far south as Whitby and Ajax, and north to Brechin and Orillia, building a team of professionals who shared her mission: to provide meaningful, individualized support to every child in need.

In 2016, Amanda opened her first clinic location -IBI Behavioural Services Inc.-, offering interdisciplinary services for children of all developmental backgrounds. With continued growth and success, she went on to open four additional locations and eventually expanded into the education sector. Her vision became a reality when she opened a licensed private school—Unique Minds Academy—designed specifically to meet the needs of neurodivergent children. UMA offers a developmental, rather than age-based, approach to learning, creating an inclusive, supportive environment where every child can thrive.

We have seen the incredible impact Amanda and her team have made firsthand. Our own son, TJ, is a proud student at UMA, and the progress he has made has been life-changing. From building confidence to fostering communication, the difference has been remarkable.

It is an absolute honour to work alongside Amanda for the Golf Fore Apraxia Charity Tournament. Her heart, dedication, and drive align perfectly with our mission to raise awareness and support for families navigating Childhood Apraxia of Speech and other developmental challenges.

When she’s not advocating for children and families, Amanda enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and three young children. She lives by the beautiful motto:

“The minute you lead with your heart, the rest will follow.”
And that is exactly what she continues to do—every single day.