Why We Started Xander’s Place

Every family deserves support, especially when the path forward feels uncertain.

Xander’s Place began with one family’s story.

Like so many parents, Xander’s dad dreamed of a future filled with adventures, laughter, and teaching his son everything he knew. But when Xander was diagnosed with autism at just two years old, that vision suddenly felt unclear. The weight of the unknown was overwhelming.

Then something changed.

During a visit to his grandparents’ house, an old dirt bike roared to life. With Xander sitting between him and the handlebars, they took off for a ride. In that moment, with the wind rushing past them and laughter filling the air, something clicked.

The diagnosis did not define his son.
Joy was still there. Connection was still there. The adventure was not gone. It just looked different.

From that point on, their days were filled with the things Xander loved, music, Hot Wheels, trampoline jumps, and moments that did not need words to be meaningful. And along the way, incredible people like Ms. Wilson helped guide and support their family when they needed it most.

That is why Xander’s Place was created.

Because no family should have to navigate that journey alone.

Today, Xander’s Place connects families to resources, creates sensory friendly spaces at community events, and shows up for parents who just need someone in their corner.

💜 When you support this event, you are helping:

Families find services and support faster
Children feel safe and included in their community
Parents feel less alone in the unknown

Every registration and every donation helps us continue this work right here in East Tennessee.

Because every family deserves support.
Every child deserves to be included.
And every journey deserves a place to begin.

Pickleball For All Y'all 2026

A fun, inclusive tournament supporting families with special needs in East Tennessee