In a bold move signaling continued autism services expansion in Northeastern Indiana, Children’s Autism Center has acquired Child’s Play Plus, a for-profit autism therapy provider. This marks the second acquisition by the Fort Wayne-based nonprofit within the past year and doubles its physical footprint, allowing it to reach more families in need.
Now operating across seven clinics with an eighth location on the way, the combined organizations are strengthening the region’s autism care infrastructure. The terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but the strategic value is clear: expanded services, shared expertise, and a stronger community presence.
“This move allows us to broaden our services, reach more families, and make a bigger impact in our community,” Children’s Autism Center said in a LinkedIn post following the announcement.
A Nonprofit on the Move
Founded in 2005, Children’s Autism Center provides critical support for children and families, including applied behavior analysis (ABA), speech therapy, social skills groups, parent training, and tutoring. Serving around 100 clients, the organization generated $10 million in revenue in 2021 and employed over 200 staff members, according to the most recent public IRS data.
This latest acquisition is a key part of a broader autism services expansion strategy. By integrating Child’s Play Plus into its existing network, Children’s Autism Center is not only increasing access to care but also enhancing the quality and variety of services offered to families in the region.
Strategic Real Estate for Service Growth
The organization’s growth hasn’t been limited to clinical partnerships. In May 2023, Children’s Autism Center’s partner nonprofit, Founding Four Inc., acquired the Village at Coventry Shopping Center — a 9.7-acre commercial property in Fort Wayne. The property includes a 74,000-square-foot retail and office building that will serve dual purposes: providing therapy space and generating revenue through business leases.
“This purchase will allow us to expand our current services into the former vet tech space and also support our community by providing high-profile lease opportunities for businesses,” said CEO Jill Forte, who leads both Children’s Autism Center and Founding Four.
This real estate investment is a cornerstone of the organization’s ongoing autism services expansion efforts. By creating new therapy spaces and developing diversified income streams, Children’s Autism Center is positioning itself for sustainable growth.
A Sign of a Shifting Industry
The acquisition of Child’s Play Plus also highlights how autism therapy — long fragmented and dominated by small providers — is beginning to consolidate. The field has experienced a wave of operational challenges in recent years, from staffing shortages to inconsistent reimbursement structures. Many believe that these pressures are pushing the industry to mature and professionalize.
While dealmaking slowed in 2023, Children’s Autism Center’s recent moves demonstrate that autism services expansion is still a priority for forward-thinking providers. This acquisition reflects a new kind of growth model: one that blends mission-driven values with smart business decisions.
The decision to acquire a for-profit provider also shows how lines are blurring between different organizational models. By bringing Child’s Play Plus under its wing, Children’s Autism Center has the opportunity to blend nonprofit care philosophies with efficient, scalable systems — a necessary combination in today’s evolving behavioral health landscape.
Looking Forward: Building a Brighter Future
The Children’s Autism Center–Child’s Play Plus partnership is more than just a merger; it’s a powerful example of what thoughtful autism services expansion can look like. It demonstrates how organizations can grow responsibly — increasing access to care, maintaining quality, and building community relationships in the process.
As the industry continues to evolve, Children’s Autism Center is setting an example by focusing on service, strategy, and sustainability. With expanded clinical capacity, new real estate assets, and a growing team, they are creating a stronger foundation for long-term impact.
And for families navigating autism spectrum disorder, that means more support, more options, and more hope.
As we look ahead, Children’s Autism Center’s journey proves that autism services expansion isn’t just about numbers — it’s about changing lives. Through smart acquisitions and mission-aligned growth, they are shaping the future of autism care in Indiana and beyond.
