In a heartfelt conversation, Layla Luna, founder of the nonprofit Just Bee, shared the deeply personal story behind her organization’s mission to foster inclusive, sensory-friendly spaces for families affected by Autism. Luna’s journey began with her son Rio’s Autism diagnosis in 2010 — a life-altering moment that opened her eyes to the challenges faced by Autistic individuals and their families. In 2019, her family was kicked out of a pizza restaurant when Rio had a meltdown, which sparked her commitment to transform public spaces and everyday experiences into welcoming environments. For Luna, the mission is simple yet profound: to create a world where everyone can “Just Bee” themselves, free from barriers.
“It’s not about the disabilities; it’s about the possibilities,” says Layla Luna. “I don’t believe you should have to change the child or adult to fit the environment. You change the environment to fit the child or adult.”
Through Just Bee, Luna has launched initiatives that are creating real change.
Just Bee Founder Layla Luna
A cornerstone of the organization’s work is a specialized training program developed in partnership with Dr. Diane Cullinane, a developmental pediatrician board-certified in pediatrics and neurodevelopmental disabilities. This training shows businesses how to welcome Neurodivergent individuals with sensitivity and understanding. By transforming local businesses into inclusive spaces, Luna and her team hope to shift societal perceptions and create a community that embraces all abilities.
“There’s always something a business can do to be more inclusive, to be DEI compliant for Neurodiverse individuals,” Luna said. “There are things that we can do as a community so our friends and family members on the spectrum don’t have to sit on the sidelines and watch the world pass them by.”
In addition to creating welcoming spaces, Luna’s advocacy has reached into changing legislation. With the help of Rep. Kathy Landing, she worked to establish “Rio’s Bill” (South Carolina Code of Laws Title 56, Article 60 §56-3-7100) which authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue special “Autistic and Neurodivergent” license plates to vehicle owners who are Autistic or Neurodivergent or are parents of Autistic or Neurodivergent children in South Carolina.
This license plate aims to reduce the chance of Autistic individuals experiencing sensory overload episodes during a traffic stop or other emergency situation. Passed unanimously in just six months, Rio’s Bill offers hope and protection for Autistic individuals and their families, ensuring that interactions with first responders are safe for everyone involved.
License plate for Rio’s Bill
Luna recalls a situation where her son had a strong negative response to the overstimulation that comes with being pulled over by law enforcement, such as flashing lights, sirens, and a stranger approaching the vehicle.
“Being pulled over is already stressful. Imagine adding Autism and sensory overload, it can quickly turn into a meltdown. If an officer doesn’t understand what’s going on, it can get unsafe very fast.” Luna added, “These plates will let law enforcement know immediately that someone in that car is on the spectrum, and to turn off sirens and lights when safe to do so, and approach calmly.”
Through Just Bee, Luna also helped secure Mount Pleasant’s recognition as an Autism-friendly city. Working with Mount Pleasant’s mayor, Will Haynie, she implemented sensory-friendly spaces and training for businesses, making Mount Pleasant a model of inclusivity for Neurodivergent families that she hopes neighboring areas will also implement.
Luna’s vision extends beyond inclusivity. In a survey conducted by Autism Travel, 87% of Autistic families avoid vacations due to unaccommodating environments, while 93% would consider traveling to Autism-friendly destinations. By fostering “Autism-friendly tourism,” she aims to encourage families who often feel excluded to explore and enjoy welcoming locations.
“With the 13% of Autistic families that went on vacation, there were 32 million trips taken last year,” Luna said. “Imagine the impact if you brought those families, plus the 87% that do not travel, to Charleston because it is Autism-friendly. It’s a win-win for families as well as the local economy.”
At every step, Luna’s dedication and advocacy are making a difference. In partnership with local organizations, Just Bee has created family-centered events, including a recent sensory-friendly Halloween celebration at Boone Hall Plantation, embodying a spirit of acceptance and belonging.
Rooted in a mother’s love, Luna believes that meaningful change starts in the heart and inspires
action across the community. Her vision calls on everyone, from business owners to public leaders, to join in building a world where families affected by Autism are welcomed and embraced.
“If you’re passionate about something, you can move mountains,” Luna said, reflecting on Just Bee’s accomplishments so far. “I’m leading with my heart, and I’m finding that people are listening. But we have so much more work to do. This is just the bee-ginning.”
For more information, visit justbeethechange.com. Download the Just Bee App for free to start finding Autism-friendly businesses near you.
