Proud Moments ABA Sponsor Spotlight: Supporting Inclusivity at Carolina Theatre

At the Carolina Theatre, we believe that every member of our community deserves a welcoming and inclusive space to experience the arts. Our Sensory Friendly Film Series would not be possible without the support and partnership of organizations that share our mission. This month, we’re excited to shine our Sponsor Spotlight on Proud Moments ABA, a leader in providing ABA therapy to children and families in North Carolina and beyond. Proud Moments has been an integral part of bringing sensory-friendly experiences to our audience. We recently caught up with their team to learn more about their work, their passion for supporting individuals with autism, and the impact of their partnership with the Carolina Theatre.

Q: Can you tell us a little about Proud Moments ABA and the services you provide in our community?

Proud Moments is one of the largest national providers of ABA therapy, serving thousands of learners across 13 states since 2014.

We provide ABA therapy for children with autism in both center-based and home-based settings. Our services also include parent collaboration, which is an essential part of the treatment process.

We are relatively new to North Carolina, with two centers currently open and plans for continued growth. Proud Moments is committed to increasing access to care for individuals with autism.

We take pride in serving a wide range of ages, from 2 to 21, and offering extended hours from 8am to 7pm to better meet families’ needs. We also partner with community organizations and businesses to provide resources and tools that help them better support individuals with autism. Examples include sensory kits for doctor’s offices, social stories for patients and families, autism-friendly communication boards, and other supportive tools.

Q; What inspired your organization to get involved with the Carolina Theatre Sensory Friendly Film Series?

Proud Moments is proud to be a sponsor and partner of the Carolina Theatre’s Sensory Friendly Film Series. This series creates opportunities for families with children with autism to enjoy a more inclusive moviegoing experience.

It also helps raise community awareness about autism and the challenges families may face when participating in public outings. The series closely aligns with Proud Moments’ goal of helping learners build experience community activities in environments that are supportive of their needs.

Q: How does your mission at Proud Moments ABA align with the goals of the Sensory Friendly Film Series?

The Sensory Friendly Film Series aligns closely with Proud Moment’s mission, which centers on accessibility, inclusivity, and empowerment for children and families.

For many families of children with autism, options for community events and activities can be very limited. Sensory-friendly experiences are often one of the only ways they can comfortably and confidently participate in outings together.

The series creates an environment where families can feel included by offering a space that allows for movement and flexibility. It reflects the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to engage in everyday experiences in a safe and supportive setting.

Q: Can you share a memorable moment or story from your involvement with the Sensory Friendly Film Series?

One memorable moment from the film series was witnessing one of our clients experience a breakthrough in adapting to a new environment. She was happy and confident throughout the show—it was the first time she seemed truly comfortable attending a movie.

She danced and sang along, laughing and fully enjoying the experience in her own way. Watching her feel so free made our day, and it also helped her caregivers feel more at ease.

Q: Why do you feel it’s important for organizations like Proud Moments ABA to partner with local arts institutions like the Carolina Theatre?

Partnerships like this help bridge the gap between clinical work and real-world experiences. In therapy, learners develop skills meant to be used in the community, and opportunities like the Sensory Friendly Film Series provide a space to practice and celebrate those skills.

These events also play an important role in increasing awareness within the broader community. By hosting inclusive experiences, they highlight the importance and value of creating environments that support individuals with diverse needs.

Q: What would you like the community to know about the value and impact of sensory-friendly events?

Sensory-friendly events are essential because they provide children with opportunities to participate in experiences within a safe and supportive environment, alongside peers with similar needs.

Families often share that they wish there were more places they could go without fear of judgment. Events like this demonstrate how small adjustments—such as modifying lighting or allowing movement—can make a meaningful difference in helping individuals feel included and welcome.

For many families, activities can feel inaccessible. These events open the door to experiences that might otherwise not feel possible.

Q: How can people learn more about Proud Moments ABA or get involved with your programs or services?

We welcome families who are interested in learning more to reach out to our Durham Center Director, Amy Fowler, to schedule a tour or discuss our services. She can be reached at afowler@proudmomentsaba.com or 919-213-8446 Option 2.

If you’re interested in services at Proud Moments, you’re also welcome to reach out to our intake team at 919-213-8446 Option 1, via our website , https://www.proudmomentsaba.com/get-started, or via email at carolinas-intakes@proudmomentsaba.com