Trying to make sense of divorce & other life traumas with a diverse needs child?
Don't worry, you are not alone.
Ava’s Path, a non-profit organization, is the first in Florida to provide disability-informed support for families going through divorce. When parents are navigating one of the hardest moments of their lives, we give them the tools, education, and advocacy skills they need to protect their children—especially those with autism, ADHD, or other disabilities.
Born from lived experience and backed by legislative change, Ava’s Path is reshaping how families, courts, and schools support children with diverse abilities.
Our goal is simple: to ensure no family has to walk this path alone.
Why it Matters
For years, Florida required divorcing parents to take a course that did not address disability at all. Families raising children with autism, ADHD, developmental delays, or medical needs were left without guidance during one of the most destabilizing moments of their lives.
Founded by parent-advocate Raquel Soto-Catalano, Ava’s Path, a Miami-based non-profit organization, changed that. Ava’s Path led legislative reform and created the first DCF-approved disability-informed parenting course in Florida.
Today, we equip families with the
tools, strategies, and advocacy skills needed to protect their children, and we train the legal and educational systems that serve them.
95%
95% of parents report increased confidence in advocating for their child’s needs.
70%
70% of Miami-Dade families who speak a language other than English.
87%
87% course completion rate among parents
No Parent Should Have to Navigate Disability and Divorce Alone.
Raquel Soto-Catalano never expected to find herself navigating divorce while caring for a daughter with disabilities and a son with emotional needs.
But on one New Year’s Eve, her world changed. She was desperate to protect her children, yet the system she hoped would guide her offered nothing tailored to families like hers. The mandatory parenting class didn’t include a single reference to disability. Parents of children with autism, ADHD, medical needs, developmental delays were being left without support.
So Raquel did something extraordinary: she changed the law and founded the non-profit organization Ava’s Path.
Today, Ava’s Path provides
the first disability-informed, state-approved parenting course in Florida, a lifeline for families going through one of the hardest moments of their lives. Parents describe the experience as
the first time they’ve felt seen, understood, and empowered to protect their children.
"Ava’s Path was the only place that understood what it meant to co-parent a child with autism through a messy divorce. I felt seen — and empowered to act."
-Ava's Path Program Participant
Announcement!
Thanks to the generous support from The Children’s Trust and our pay-it-forward donors, we are able to offer our courses at a reduced costs to families. Each course registration includes full access, along with downloadable workbooks and tools.
Want to help more families access the support they need?
Join our community of donors and make a direct impact today.
Ava’s Path
Co-parenting Resources to Help You Thrive
At Ava's Path, we understand the unique challenges parents of children with disabilities face during divorce and other life traumas. You're navigating complex emotions, legal processes, and the future of your family, all while ensuring your child's needs are met.
We’re more than just a co-parenting resource
We're a supportive community built from a foundation of hope, empathy, and empowerment.
We equip you with the education, resources, and community you need to create equitable co-parenting plans that prioritize your child's well-being and foster happy, healthy family relationships.
What sets us apart?
Specialized Knowledge:
We understand the needs of unique families and help to minimize the impact and trauma of divorce.
Comprehensive Support:
We offer courses and resources tailored to your journey.
Empowering Approach:
We equip you with knowledge and tools to help you advocate for the needs of your child.
Inclusive Environment:
We welcome and support all families.
Hopeful Outlook:
We believe that positive co-parenting is possible and that a bright future awaits your family
Don't walk this path alone.
Register for our courses and learn how we can empower and support you every step of the way.
Course outcomes for families
PROTECT
Safeguard your child's well-being and stability with specialized support.
THRIVE
Foster resilience and help your family thrive through this transition.
CONNECT
Find community and support from other families facing similar challenges.
EMPOWER
Gain the knowledge and skills to navigate divorce confidently.
Resources
What families are saying
“This course has given me a great amount of insight. Now I know that I want to be cooperative. Even if there has been conflict between me and my spouse, I am willing to put my feelings aside for my children.” - Zachary, father of 2
“Learning more about the stages of development has taught me how to support my child. The resources provided were invaluable. This course is well worth it.” - Tricia, mother of child with a disability
“Empathy plays a huge role for quicker healing and overall sanity.” - Jared, father
Official Endorsements and Approvals for Ava’s Path
Supported by:
The Florida Bar
Florida House of Representatives
The Children's Trust
Approved:
The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF)
Ava's Path is honored to receive such significant endorsements and official approval, reflecting our commitment to providing high-quality, impactful educational content.
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Members will access tailored educational resources, expert advice, and compassionate insights to empower them on this journey of transition and growth. Subscribe today to access a wealth of knowledge and support to help your family thrive during this challenging time.