Sacramento Autistic Spectrum and Special Needs Alliance (SASSNA) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Sacramento Autistic Spectrum and Special Needs Alliance (SASSNA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive social services to support autistic and other mentally-diverse youth and their families in Northern California. Established in 2011 by behavior analyst and disability advocate Dave Gaines, SASSNA aims to ensure that every mentally-diverse child is nurtured and protected toward a life of self-defined happiness and health.

Mission and Vision

SASSNA's mission is to facilitate the best possible adult outcomes for mentally-diverse young people aged zero through twenty-two years in the Greater Sacramento region. The organization envisions a community where every mentally-diverse child receives comprehensive assistance, ensuring all aspects of their development are cared for.

Primary Area of Focus

SASSNA focuses on providing case management, advocacy, social and recreational events, informational and educational support, and resource assistance to individuals with autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and other developmental diagnoses. Their services are designed to help individuals reach their own definitions of health and happiness.

Industry Significance

As Northern California's premier nonprofit organization in this sector, SASSNA plays a crucial role in supporting mentally-diverse youth and their families, addressing a significant need for specialized services in the region. Their holistic and individualized approach sets them apart in the industry.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Comprehensive Support: Provide holistic assistance to mentally-diverse youth and their families, addressing all aspects of the young person's development.

Advocacy: Assist families in obtaining their rights and the rights of their children in terms of educational services, government services, employment, and other areas.

Community Engagement: Foster inclusive, accommodating, and welcoming atmospheres through events and programs.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Case Management: Offering complete guidance to optimize outcomes for mentally-diverse children and young adults.

Advocacy Services: Helping clients navigate government agencies, school systems, insurance plans, health providers, and employers.

Special Programs: Providing unique opportunities through periodic special programs.

Key Technologies Utilized

While specific technologies are not detailed, SASSNA employs a flexible social services model to comprehensively serve the needs of individuals with various developmental diagnoses.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Autism Spectrum Disorders

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Down Syndrome

Intellectual Disabilities

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Other Developmental Diagnoses

Financials and Funding

Funding History

SASSNA operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, relying on donations from clients and the community to fund its operations. The organization does not charge mandatory fees for its services; instead, it asks clients to make monetary contributions based on what they can afford.

Total Funds Raised

Specific figures regarding total funds raised are not publicly disclosed.

Recent Funding Rounds

Details about recent funding rounds are not available.

Notable Investors

As a nonprofit, SASSNA does not have investors but relies on community donations and contributions.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds are utilized to support the organization's various programs and services, including case management, advocacy, special programs, and community outreach.

Pipeline Development

As a nonprofit organization, SASSNA does not have a product pipeline or clinical trials. Instead, it focuses on developing and expanding its services to meet the evolving needs of mentally-diverse youth and their families.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

SASSNA employs a flexible social services model to comprehensively serve the needs of individuals with various developmental diagnoses. While specific proprietary technologies are not detailed, the organization utilizes a holistic and individualized approach to care.

Significant Scientific Methods

The organization employs evidence-based practices in behavior analysis and psychology to guide its services. While specific scientific methods are not detailed, SASSNA's approach is informed by these disciplines.

Leadership Team

Dave Gaines – Chief Executive Officer

Dave Gaines is the founder and CEO of SASSNA. He holds a bachelor's degree in philosophy and has graduate-level education in psychology and applied behavior analysis. Dave has over a decade of experience in the mental health field, primarily providing behavior analysis services to autistic and similar youth of all ages. He is also a passionate advocate for disability rights, focusing on mental disabilities and promoting equality and diversity among all people.

Philong Huynh – Treasurer and Corporate Secretary

Philong Huynh graduated from Sacramento State University with a double major in history and biology. He plans to attend medical school in the future and joined SASSNA to serve mentally-diverse youth. Philong is training to become a special education advocate and is passionate about helping disadvantaged children and their families succeed in life.

Board of Directors

Sara Sepulveda

David Colby

Hannah Shelton

The board of directors can be reached by email at board@sassna.org.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for services supporting mentally-diverse youth in Northern California is growing, with increasing awareness and demand for specialized services. Organizations like SASSNA play a crucial role in meeting these needs.

Competitor Analysis

While specific competitors are not detailed, organizations such as the UC Davis MIND Institute and the CCHAT Center in Sacramento offer services to individuals with autism and other developmental disorders. However, SASSNA's comprehensive and individualized approach sets it apart in the region.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

SASSNA collaborates with various community organizations and relies on sponsors and partners to strengthen its market position and innovation capacity. Specific details about these collaborations are not provided.

Operational Insights

SASSNA's flexible social services model allows it to adapt to the unique needs of each individual, providing a comprehensive system of care and support. This approach differentiates the organization from competitors and positions it as a leader in the field.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

SASSNA aims to expand its services and reach more families in the Greater Sacramento region. The organization is interested in adding members to its board of directors and continues to seek funding and support to enhance its programs.