Local Couple Supports Autism Awareness through their Business and Nonprofit Outreach

By Jennifer Wimmer

Jonathan James, owner of Bozarth Auto Sales & Service, and his wife Kourtney James, founder of Autism Advocates of Perry County, are dedicated to promoting autism awareness, and providing resources to families raising special needs children. Their son, Aayden, was diagnosed with autism just before his second birthday, and since then they’ve made it a priority to support others in the community who are navigating similar challenges, as well as promoting autism acceptance and understanding.

“My wife and I bought the business from Mike Bozarth in 2019,” Jonathan said. “That same year, we celebrated the arrival of our first son, Aayden, and in 2020, we welcomed our youngest, Bransyn. From the very beginning of our journey, we aimed to give back to the community that played a significant role in shaping who I am today. In 2022, our oldest son was diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), and from that moment we committed ourselves to learning about autism and the resources available. As we shared our experiences with others, we discovered that many were facing similar challenges, unsure of where to turn or who to approach, often accompanied by the anxiety that comes with an ASD diagnosis. We felt a strong desire to help, to initiate conversations, and to advocate not just for our son but for all individuals with ASD. We wanted to spread the message that autism is not something to fear or face alone.”

This young compassionate couple purchased a business, bought their first home, and began raising their two sons, all within the course of less than two years. They continue to have a very full schedule, but refuse to let it stop them from fulfilling their goal of giving back to their community, and other families who are learning how to thrive while raising children with autism.

“When Aayden was one and a half to two-years-old, we started noticing differences between him and his brother, and that’s when we started reaching out and finding resources. Since then, my wife has started Autism Advocates of Perry County. With her nonprofit, she is partnered with Ben’s Blue Bags. She raises money, purchases the bags, and they go in the vehicles with first responders and law enforcement to provide more care for special needs children. She’s done backpacks for the schools with headphones and text books, and all kinds of different things for them.”

Ben’s Blue Bags was started by Matt Kodicek, an Indiana firefighter, whose son, Ben, is on the autism spectrum as well. This initiative provides first responders with sensory bags that contain fidget spinners, Rubik’s cubes, and other items tailored for de-escalating overstimulation, assisting with reducing anxiety during emergency situations, and helping with clearer communication. The program also includes training sessions that help first responders to better understand Autism Spectrum Disorder.

“Everybody knows Aayden,” Jonathan said. “He has a really outgoing personality. You just have to meet him to know what I’m saying. You never forget him…I’m able to spend more time with the kids now, and that’s because of the help we’ve gotten, and our employees.”

Jonathan and Kourtney are expanding their family business ventures, and recently acquired a party bus and limousine service while also preparing to open a second Bozarth Auto location in Tell City. Jonathan said he plans to give back further by donating a car to a family in need at Christmas time this year, through Bozarth Auto and Kourtney’s nonprofit.
Bozarth Auto Sales & Service actively engages in community events like Perry Central’s Touch a Truck, similar to the First Responders Day held in Hancock County. These events allow children, families, and individuals the important opportunity to explore emergency vehicles, meet first responders, and ask questions.

The James family is also well-known locally for its efforts with integrating autism-awareness designs into the Bozarth Auto Sales & Service logo, and on their company trucks, with the aim of promoting awareness and inclusivity.

“To show our support, we decided to incorporate vibrant puzzle pieces on our tow trucks and service vehicles,” Jonathan said, “which has sparked conversations and led to sharing valuable information and forming lasting friendships. To us, autism represents a different perspective, showcasing resilience and strength, and we want to help others recognize and appreciate that too. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals with ASD can thrive, and we work towards that goal every day.”

Recognizing the challenges faced by families with special needs children, Jonathan and Kourtney are committed to providing this support. Despite their busy schedules, they realize how vital it is to have a solid support system, and have chosen to extend that out and help others thrive as well. They have a truly admirable goal of making a real difference in the community they live in, both personally and professionally.
Located at 213 North 7th Street in Cannelton, Indiana, Bozarth Auto Sales & Service offers certified auto repair, tires, alignments, quality used cars, and 24/7 towing and roadside assistance. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The phone number is (812) 566-0562.

Like and follow the Bozarth Auto Sales, Service & Towing Facebook page, and the Autism Advocates of Perry County FB page to keep current on upcoming events.