Mustard Seed Autism Project

The center my mom built nearly 20 years ago, the one that’s given hundreds of children with autism a place to grow, speak, and thrive, is going through a challenging time.

My mom's heart has always been bigger than the budget. She’s been quietly holding it together on her own for years, fighting to keep paying therapists and staff, keep supporting families, and keep on keeping on even when the money wasn’t there. And I can’t watch her carry this alone anymore.

My name is Joel Wagner, and I’m writing this as the proud son of an extraordinary woman.

Nearly 20 years ago, my mom turned her dream into reality by opening an ABA therapy center for children with autism. She didn’t do it for recognition. She did it because she saw a need, and she believed every child deserved a chance to thrive, regardless of their family’s financial situation.

That small dream grew into a place of transformation: families found HOPE, kids found their voices, and a legacy began. Therapists trained by my mom now carry on her work across the DFW Metroplex and beyond. But through it all, she’s remained focused on one thing: showing up, every single day, for her kids, their families, and her staff.

What once seemed impossible has been conquered. Kids who could never talk, now talk. Many have learned to drive, graduated high school, and graduated college. The legacy of accomplishments these kids have made with her help is unreal.

What she has built is irreplaceable.

After years of underfunding and the loss of key staff, my mom’s center is experiencing unprecedented challenges. Grant funding has dried up. Staff have moved on to carry on her work elsewhere. And while the impact remains strong, the financial foundation doesn’t. She has always put her whole heart into it: giving scholarships, helping employees out of her own pocket, and keeping services going no matter what.

So I’m asking for your help.

I would love to raise $35,000 to give her peace of mind and bridge to a more sustainable future. Your donation—big or small—will help retain high quality therapists and continue care for the kiddos who rely on this place every day.

This isn’t just about saving a building. It’s about honoring a legacy.

My mom never asks for help. But I will do it for her.

Please give today if you can. And if you can’t give, please share this with someone who can.

From my heart, and hers, we thank you.