Autism Awareness support group of Georgia
Join us in making a difference for families affected by autism.
Autism Allies Est 2025
Autism Allies is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization devoted to enriching and empowering the lives of youth, adults, and families within autistic and neurodivergent communities south of Atlanta.
Who We Are
Bobby C Gearing III, MD,MS
Bobby C Gearing III, MD,MS
Bobby C Gearing III, MD,MS
Dr. Gearing is a Pediatrician and partner at Griffin Pediatrics. Originally from Rochester, New York, Dr. Gearing relocated to McDonough, Georgia, five years ago. Before making the move south, he served as the Medical Director at the renowned Anderson Center for Autism in Staatsburg, NY. Over the years, through countless conversations wi
Dr. Gearing is a Pediatrician and partner at Griffin Pediatrics. Originally from Rochester, New York, Dr. Gearing relocated to McDonough, Georgia, five years ago. Before making the move south, he served as the Medical Director at the renowned Anderson Center for Autism in Staatsburg, NY. Over the years, through countless conversations with parents—especially mothers—he repeatedly heard the same concerns: limited access to therapy, fragmented services, and a lack of coordinated community support.
Motivated to make a difference, Dr. Gearing joined forces with one of these mothers , Mrs. Megan Obert, to create Autism Allies, a community-driven organization dedicated to supporting families, increasing awareness, and promoting inclusion for individuals with autism
Megan Obert
Bobby C Gearing III, MD,MS
Bobby C Gearing III, MD,MS
Born and raised in Spalding County, Megan Obert has always been deeply connected to her community and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family. Her journey into autism advocacy began with her son, River Obert, who was diagnosed with autism after his pediatrician, Dr. Bobby Gearing, noticed signs and referred him for evaluation.
Throu
Born and raised in Spalding County, Megan Obert has always been deeply connected to her community and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family. Her journey into autism advocacy began with her son, River Obert, who was diagnosed with autism after his pediatrician, Dr. Bobby Gearing, noticed signs and referred him for evaluation.
Through her experience navigating River’s diagnosis, Megan recognized the challenges many families face—feelings of uncertainty, limited local resources, and the need for more awareness and support within the community. Determined to make a difference, she partnered with Dr. Gearing to establish Autism Allies,.
Megan continues to be a compassionate voice for parents and a driving force in helping others feel seen, supported, and connected on their journey.
Resources
Toolkit for Improved Sleep-Autism Speaks
Wandering and Elopement- National Autism Association
Tips for Challenging Behaviors-Autism Speaks
Sleep difficulties are common among children with autism, often affecting both the child’s well-being and the entire family’s daily life. Many children with autism have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or maintaining consistent sleep routines. Factors such as sensory sensitivities, anxiety, irregular melatonin levels, or challenges with transitions can all contribute to disrupted sleep
Tips for Challenging Behaviors-Autism Speaks
Wandering and Elopement- National Autism Association
Tips for Challenging Behaviors-Autism Speaks
Children with autism may sometimes display behaviors that are seen as challenging—such as aggression, self-injury, tantrums, or resistance to change. These behaviors are often a form of communication, especially when a child has difficulty expressing needs, emotions, or discomfort with words.
Wandering and Elopement- National Autism Association
Wandering and Elopement- National Autism Association
Wandering and Elopement- National Autism Association
Wandering, also known as elopement, is when a child with autism leaves a safe space or caregiver’s supervision unexpectedly. This behavior can happen for many reasons—some children may be drawn to places they find interesting, like water or playgrounds, while others may try to escape situations that feel overwhelming, such as loud noises or crowded environments.
Going out to Eat
Wandering and Elopement- National Autism Association
Wandering and Elopement- National Autism Association
Dining out can be an enjoyable family experience—but for children with autism, it may also bring unique challenges. New environments, unfamiliar foods, background noise, bright lights, and waiting times can all feel overwhelming or unpredictable. With thoughtful preparation and understanding, eating out can become a positive and rewarding experience for both the child and the family
Autism in the News
RFK Jr. Hand selects autism panel
21 new members of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee appointed by Kennedy
Incidence of Autism similar in girls and boys
Hillsborough County bus aide caught on camera abusing child with autism while driver laughs
No link between paracetamol in pregnancy and autism or ADHD in children, review finds
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