Built by a mother. Made for every family.
Gregory & Friends Adult Day Center in Dumfries, VA was born from a mother's determination to create the kind of support, dignity, and opportunity she wanted for her own son.
How Gregory & Friends began
Our founder and director, Antonia Akwule, is the proud mother of Gregory, an adult with autism. Like many neurodivergent individuals, Gregory aged out of the public school system at 22. While his educational journey had provided structure, support, and opportunities for growth, Antonia quickly discovered a challenge that many families face: finding the right next step after graduation.
For several years, Gregory remained at home while Antonia searched for programs that could meet his unique needs. Finding an Adult Day Center equipped to support individuals with autism — particularly those who are non-verbal — proved far more difficult than she had imagined.
When Gregory was eventually enrolled in a day center, the experience was not what Antonia had hoped for. Over the years, Gregory attended three different centers as she continued searching for a program that truly understood and supported individuals like her son. She wanted more than supervision; she wanted a place where Gregory could build relationships, develop skills, participate in meaningful activities, and be treated with the dignity and respect every individual deserves.
After years of navigating the system firsthand, Antonia reached a pivotal realization: if the right program didn't exist, she would build it herself.
That decision led to the creation of Gregory & Friends.
"What would we want for Gregory? A community where every individual is valued, supported, and empowered to thrive."
Our mission today
Today, Gregory & Friends exists to provide a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for adults with autism and other neurodivergent needs. Our mission is to help participants continue growing, learning, socializing, and living meaningful lives beyond the school years. We believe every individual deserves opportunities to connect with their community, explore their interests, develop independence, and be celebrated for who they are.
About Antonia
Antonia brings not only the perspective of a parent and advocate, but also decades of professional leadership. An accomplished attorney with more than 20 years of legal experience, she has dedicated her career to serving others and championing causes that matter. She is also admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States — a distinction that reflects her commitment to excellence and service.
20+ years
Legal experience
Family-led
Founded by a parent
Person-centered
Care philosophy
Ready to take the next step?
Learn how to enroll your loved one in our Dumfries day program.