Joycelynn Patterson shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Joycelynn, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I am walking a path .I’m writing to you because I am the founder of PROJECT BAAM ( A Better approach to Autism & Mental Health nonprofit) I am a cement truck accident survivor , lupus warrior & autismmom who started a petition titled ‘Mandatory Autism & Mental Health Training for First Responders & Educators; I also hope to Implement Emergency Lines, assist with better Respite care & IEP goals alongside requesting mental health & behavior health in schools ….The petition has garnered widespread support from our community, with 28,000 signatures and counting.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Greetings ,
I hope this message finds you well. My name is Joycelynn P., founder of PROJECT BAAM INC (A Better Approach to Autism & Mental Health)—a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating safer, more compassionate communities for individuals living with autism and mental health challenges.
As a cement truck accident survivor, lupus warrior, and mother of three my son having severe profound autism, delayed mylenation & alluminum toxcitiy, I know firsthand the urgent need for change. PROJECT BAAM was born from a petition I started calling for mandatory autism and mental health training for first responders and educators. The petition has garnered over 28,000 signatures & counting which further proves our need for changes within our schools, daycares and encounters with First Responders. Our mission is simple but critical: equip those on the front lines with the knowledge, tools, and compassion to respond effectively and safely alongside other safety tools for all parties . Affordable home security , more resources for families etc.
The statistics are sobering:
1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism (CDC, 2023).
Individuals with serious mental illness are 16 times more likely to be killed during a police encounter (Treatment Advocacy Center).
Research shows that up to 50% of people killed by law enforcement have a disability, many involving mental health or developmental conditions.
Early intervention, understanding, and specialized training drastically reduce the risk of tragic outcomes.
PROJECT BAAM works to bridge the gap between law enforcement, educators, families, and the community through training programs, public awareness campaigns, and family resources. But we cannot do this alone.
We need your help.
Your support—whether through funding, sponsorship, or collaboration—will directly help us expand training initiatives, develop community outreach programs, and provide essential advocacy for families in crisis. Every partnership brings us one step closer to creating a future where first responders and educators are fully equipped to handle autism and mental health situations with safety and empathy.
On behalf of PROJECT BAAM INC, I sincerely thank you for your time and consideration. Together, we can save lives, protect families, and change the way our communities respond to some of their most vulnerable members.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how we can work together. You can reach me directly at
projectbaammovement@gmail.com or on Instagram @autismmomjoy
Phone : (470) 288-4526 or 706-366-8506
Address :PROJECT BAAM INC 1445 Woodmont LN NW #549 Atlanta GA 30318
With gratitude,
Joycelynn P.
Founder, PROJECT BAAM, Inc.
“A Better Approach to Autism & Mental Health
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
Once my petition reached 20,000 signatures I knew I was powerful and my voice could help many
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
After my cement truck accident breaking my spine life hasnt been the same things are much harder but ill never quit
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I admire my children’s father he is always going the extra mile and despite what he battles himself with disabiltiies he continues to persevere.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I never gave up despite the trials & tribulations I faced and to always use their voice someone has to be the voice for the voiceless
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.change.org/autismmomjoypetition
- Instagram: @AUTISMMOMJOY
