Helen Iese
Board Chair
Fetalaiga Gaoteote
Executive Director
Jan Gaoteote
Org Development
Andrew Iha
Finance
Mireya Jimenez Recendez
Community Outreach
Crystal Tautala
Communications/Media
Rooted in service and inclusion, Tautua supports families in urban communities—especially those historically underserved—as they navigate autism and mental health challenges.
Tautua is a nonprofit organization committed to uplifting urban communities by supporting families affected by autism and mental health challenges. Originally founded in 1993 in San Jose, California, Tautua began as a scholarship fund to help Pacific Islander students pursue higher education. The organization was established by Sua Moni Gaoteote, a passionate advocate for education and service.
After Sua’s passing in 2020, his children were inspired to carry on his legacy. In 2024, they revived and expanded the mission to address the pressing needs they saw in their own communities—specifically the lack of support and culturally responsive resources for autism and mental health.
Today, Tautua serves as a lifeline for families by providing access to support groups, educational workshops, mental health advocacy, and community-building events. We believe that every family deserves compassion, guidance, and tools to thrive, regardless of background or circumstance.
Our work is rooted in the spirit of service, dignity, and inclusion—values that reflect both our cultural heritage and our unwavering commitment to our community.
A vibrant community where children and adults on the autism spectrum—and those facing mental-health challenges—are embraced without stigma, where families have seamless access to culturally responsive care, and where collective service (“tautua”) fosters resilience, inclusion, and wellbeing across generations.
We believe strong families build strong communities. We listen first, partner locally, and design programs based on the real needs of families in our neighborhoods.
Equity & Access Every family deserves access to quality information, care, and support—regardless of background, income, or zip code. We provide free or low-cost programming, eliminate barriers to participation, and meet families where they are.
Compassion & Respect We treat every person with dignity, empathy, and understanding. Our support groups and events create safe, welcoming spaces for families facing unique challenges.
Knowledge creates confidence and leads to better outcomes. We offer workshops, resource guides, and navigation tools that help families advocate for their loved ones.
Change happens when communities work together. We collaborate with schools, healthcare providers, local agencies, and grassroots groups to expand our reach and impact.
We earn trust through honesty and responsibility. We track our outcomes, use resources wisely, and keep our community informed.
Board Chair
Executive Director
Org Development
Finance
Community Outreach
Communications/Media
