From Awareness to Action: Where Purpose Meets Community for Families in Mascotte

 By Councilwoman Robin Hughes

 

April is Autism Awareness Month a time that calls for more than recognition. It calls for intentional action, compassion, and a commitment to meeting families where they are. As a Councilwoman and as someone deeply invested in the wellbeing of this community, I want to personally acknowledge and celebrate the opening of Ivy’s Day Services here in Mascotte.

 

Founded by Kazmar Cole, Ivy’s Day Services is rooted in both experience and purpose. With over 10 years in special education, Kazmar has dedicated his career to supporting children with diverse learning and developmental needs. He has witnessed firsthand what happens when children are given the right tools, the right support, and the right environment they grow, they overcome, and they thrive.

 

His impact extends beyond the classroom. As an author, he has created resources like “My Feelings @ School,” “A Man Called Pepe,” and “Pickney Fi Brite Letters and Numbers Workbook,” all designed to support children academically and emotionally. Kazmar holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and Education and is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Educational Leadership. His work reflects a clear and focused mission: to better understand how children learn and to create spaces where every child has the opportunity to succeed.

 

That mission is evident in Ivy’s Day Services. The center’s name is inspired by his grandmother, whose spirit of kindness, generosity, and genuine care continues to shape the heart behind this work. That legacy is felt the moment you step into the space it is welcoming, intentional, and built on the belief that every family deserves support.

 

Ivy’s Day Services operates with a simple but powerful message: the door is always open. The services offered reflect a holistic approach to support, including:

 

As I reflect during Autism Awareness Month, I am reminded that awareness alone is not enough. Families need resources. They need support systems. They need spaces where their children are understood and valued. Ivy’s Day Services contributes to that need in a meaningful way.

 

I would also like to personally recognize those who made this moment memorable and supported this milestone: Fat Chef Authentic Jamaican Cuisine Restaurant for catering; Episcopal Children’s Services in Clermont; Seventh Day Baptist Church of Central Florida; and Ann’s Designs for capturing such memorable moments.

 

To Kazmar Cole: thank you for your commitment to children and families, and for planting something purposeful right here in Mascotte. And to the families in our community this is a reminder that support is growing, resources are expanding, and there are people who see you and are committed to walking alongside you.

Mascotte doesn’t just grow we grow with purpose, and we grow with people in mind.