About Us

 Paije Lopez is the Founder and Executive Director of The ATA Lopez Foundation; a nonprofit organization created from lived experience and a deep commitment to ensuring that families raising children with disabilities and neurodivergent needs are never left to navigate systems alone.

Paije’s journey into advocacy began as a parent navigating the special education, medical, and support systems for her three sons with special needs—Aiden, Tony, and Adrian—who are the namesake and inspiration behind the Foundation. Through this journey, she experienced firsthand the confusion, isolation, and lack of accessible support that many families face. The ATA Lopez Foundation was created to fill those gaps with compassion, education, and direct support.

Under Paije’s leadership, the Foundation provides free IEP advocacy and guidance, autism support and resource navigation, caregiver education, inclusive community events, and family support initiatives. The Foundation also offers direct assistance such as food, pull-ups, and essential supplies for families in need, along with inclusive playdates and educational programming designed to promote connection, safety, and long-term family stability. One of its signature initiatives, the Safe Return Program, supports individuals with disabilities who may be at risk of wandering or elopement.

The ATA Lopez Foundation is a proud member of the Chamber of Commerce and has been recognized for its impact across the Baton Rouge area and surrounding parishes. Paije’s advocacy work and leadership have been featured in Parents Magazine, Unfiltered with Kiran, and POWER Magazine. She has received multiple honors, including Best of Baton Rouge – Nonprofit, Family Favorites – Special Needs Service, Family Favorites – Nonprofit Organization, and recognition as a 2025 Baton Rouge Area Activists Honoree.

In addition to her work with the Foundation, Paije serves as President of the Florida Parishes Regional Advisory Council (RAC) and is an active member of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) and the Louisiana Council’s Advocacy Network (LaCAN). Through these roles, she advocates for improved systems of care, education, and accessibility at both the community and policy levels.

Paije is a Certified Neurodiversity Coach and holds an Autism Certificate (AC) through IBCCES. Her leadership is informed by extensive professional training and a strong belief in neurodiversity-affirming, family-centered support. Above all, her work is driven by the belief that informed, supported families create safer, stronger, and more inclusive communities.

 Empowering every family to feel supported and confident in advocating for themselves and their child, while fostering a more inclusive community. 

 Our mission is to empower families through advocacy and education while working to close gaps and create inclusive, connected communities.