The Woman Behind W.O.O.T.
By Sadie Jones
In the United States, 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with autism. Despite this, resources remain limited, leaving many families to navigate challenges alone.
For Chayna Short, this reality became personal when her son Payton was diagnosed with autism at the age of five. Chayna noticed early on that Payton’s development differed from that of his peers; he was extremely quiet and kept to himself. While the diagnosis confirmed her observations, it also marked the beginning of a challenging journey. Chayna struggled to find resources that were tailored to the unique experiences of minority families. Determined to ensure that families in similar situations felt supported, Chayna set out on a mission to provide a safe space for minority mothers and caretakers of children with autism to lean on each other. What began as informal living room gatherings in 2013 has since grown into Women Overcoming Obstacles Together (W.O.O.T.). This organization is now a lifeline for minority families navigating autism in Syracuse, helping them to overcome systemic bias and limited access
to resources.
Through W.O.O.T., Chayna not only advocates for her son’s needs but also for community-wide improvements that will expand access to autism resources for families of color to ensure no one is left behind. From organizing autism awareness summits and self-care gatherings for caregivers to equipping families with tools and assistance for their children, W.O.O.T. actively works to bridge the gap in services. Over the next several years, Chayna hopes to expand W.O.O.T. by partnering with schools, healthcare providers, and other organizations to reach even more local families.
“Our kids don’t need to be fixed — they have the ability to be great. We just need to figure out their greatness, Chayna said.”
"Payton is my 'why,'" Chayna said. She credits her son’s growth as her greatest motivation. Chayna and her husband each work two jobs to fund Payton’s education at Christian Brothers Academy. You’ll find her cheering the loudest on the sidelines of his basketball games.
The sense of comfort and trust that mothers and children feel in Chayna’s presence is undeniable. “I aspire to build a future where no obstacle is insurmountable and where every mother and child can thrive and make a meaningful impact on their communities,” she said.
W.O.O.T. hosts events throughout the Syracuse community. “I wanted to make sure that we have a place where we can come to fellowship, and everybody is okay because there is no judgment," Chayna said. At this event, “Appetizers for Autism,” W.O.O.T brought the community together for autism advocacy with a silent auction and DJ. Other events Chayna has organized are self-care days hosted at The Candle Bar by Cocoa's Candles. She also hosted “Ties, Tenders, and Fries,” an event for young boys to learn tie-tying and etiquette while fostering mentorship.
W.O.O.T. board members Monique Fenell, Erin Johnson, and Alysia Vazquez play a vital role in Chayna’s mission to better the community. As the organization has grown, Chayna has leaned on her friends and other women who share similar experiences.
Erin Johnson shares Chayna’s motivation. She is passionate about seeing the youth of Syracuse thrive while ensuring their caregivers feel supported every step of the way.
Chayna and Payton are actively involved in the Syracuse Police Athletic/Activities League (Syracuse PAL). Payton participates in Syracuse PAL events including several sports and educational programs while Chayna volunteers. Syracuse PAL aims to bring youth and law enforcement together to build positive relationships.
Outside of W.O.O.T., Chayna continues to serve the community in every way she can. “We make sure our kids have the best because our kids deserve that,” Oliver said, recognizing Chayna’s work within his organization and beyond.
“She’s intentional, she cares, she’s going to push you, she loves this community,” Oliver said.
Looking to the future, Chayna is working towards launching W.O.O.T. 2.0 and obtaining her 501(c)(3) status as a public charity. Taking this step will allow W.O.O.T. 2.0 to apply for federal, state, and private grants exclusively available to tax-exempt organizations. With increased funding, the organization can scale its programs, serve more families, and strengthen its advocacy efforts.
Fourteen-year-old Payton is the driving force behind Chayna’s dedication to W.O.O.T. and the Syracuse community. “He is the reason why this vision has come to be,” Chayna said.