The driving force behind the inception and ultimate creation of Cornerstone Autism Center was one charming little blue-eyed boy with autism. His parents, Debbie and David Ide, wanted a place that would attract top clinical talent and offer their son, and others like him, the opportunity to learn and thrive. They dreamed of a place that encouraged fun while learning, which gave parents hope and that inspired selfless dedication of staff by insisting on uncompromised quality and adherence to best in class therapy. These three simple tenets shaped what would become the company’s mission statement: “Maximize those who struggle, embrace those who love, and fulfill those who serve.”

Since Cornerstone opened its doors in 2010, these simple concepts proved to be a successful formula. That one child became three, then three became nine, and so on. The centers quickly grew when parents learned of this special place designed by a parent’s heart. Cornerstone has since expanded into the communities of West Lafayette and Avon, and over the years has served hundreds of families. Cornerstone became known for their unwavering dedication to quality intervention, ongoing training, and family support. We have witnessed incredible growth not only in the children receiving treatment, but in the families that love them, and the staff that serve them. The work we do is truly transformative, by every measure.

The “How” Cornerstone came to be is a long story, and not nearly as interesting or impactful as the “Why.” The idea of creating a place to maximize the potential of one little boy has gone on to do so much more. Hundreds of children’s lives have been changed, in very meaningful ways. Families have found hope and a path forward, and staff have found inspiration and reward by serving others. All because of one blue-eyed little boy.