about us

Lauren Weissman Kerner never imagined that becoming a mother would also make her an advocate, an educator, and eventually a nonprofit founder. But life has a way of guiding us where we’re most needed.

When her children were diagnosed as neurodivergent, there were moments of confusion, countless appointments, and hours spent researching, trying to understand how best to support their development, education, and emotional wellbeing. Lauren soon realized this wasn’t just a parenting journey—it was a calling.

What struck Lauren most wasn’t just the lack of resources, but the deep disconnect between families, educators, and systems. She witnessed many brilliant, creative, compassionate children being misunderstood in classrooms not because teachers didn’t care, but because they weren’t equipped. She saw parents struggling to navigate diagnoses and services, often feeling isolated or judged. And she knew children—her own included—deserved better: to be seen, heard, and supported exactly as they are.

That’s why Lauren founded EmpowerED Growing Minds—to build bridges where there were once barriers.

EmpowerED Growing Minds exists to educate, empower, and connect. It provides training for teachers so they can recognize and respond to neurodivergence with understanding. It offers support and resources to parents who are learning to advocate while parenting. And most of all, it creates spaces where neurodivergent children can thrive—not in spite of who they are, but because of it.



Lauren’s mission is personal, passionate, and profoundly needed. She started this work for her own children—but she continues it for every child who deserves a chance to shine.