Hukama is a Tampa Bay Area-based organization, connecting the dental and autism communities using an inclusive approach. Hukama has developed a one-of-a-kind toolkit for dental professionals which allows them to learn how to integrate children with autism into their practice and build rapport, leading to improved provider-patient successes. The toolkit includes a training video as well as visual and physical tools, created specifically for professionals. 

While Hukama’s products are obviously beneficial for the families, they also present a way for dental practices to expand their clientele using a socially responsible method. 

“The reality for many families is that it is a challenge to locate a dentist willing to welcome and treat an autistic child,” said Ruth Hirshfeld, CEO of Hukama. “As a mother of an autistic child, I didn’t want another family to go through what I had to as my son was growing up.”

Rather than expecting children with autism to “blend in,” Ruth and her team set out to create environments where children and their families are welcomed in and accepted for who they are. 

Hukama is a mission-oriented, non-profit 501(c)(3) public charity dedicated to expanding access to equitable care, providing competitive, integrated employment opportunities, and giving back to the autism community. To contact Hukama and learn how you can get involved in sharing their mission, please visit their website.