[{"id":52628,"postID":"aa31bc43-0d2b-ae66-5016-08f5ac431fc4","postName":"Celebrating Talent and Opportunity During National Disability Employment Awareness Month","postDescription":"\nEvery October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) recognizes the contributions of workers with disabilities and promotes inclusive employment.\u00a0\n\nAt Els for Autism\u00ae,\u00a0our Employment Programs help individuals explore career interests, build job skills, prepare for the workplace, and pursue meaningful employment.\u00a0Support\u00a0also continues\u00a0after someone is hired as they learn their new role and become more independent on the job.\u00a0\n\nSo far in 2026, Els for Autism has helped 25 individuals secure jobs in the community. Each person brings their own strengths, interests, and goals to the workplace.\u00a0\u00a0\n\nMeet Maggie\u00a0\n\nMaggie has worked as a Server Assistant at North Palm Beach Country Club since January 2026. Her responsibilities include folding napkins, preparing silverware rolls, cleaning, and organizing stock. She is also training to become\u00a0a hostess.\u00a0\n\nOne skill Maggie is especially proud of is learning new ways to fold restaurant napkins.\u00a0\n\n\u201cIt was very hard for me, but I finally learned to do it,\u201d Maggie shared.\u00a0\n\nAs Maggie has gained experience, she has also become increasingly independent in her role.\u00a0\n\n\u201cI feel like I can get the job done and be successful,\u201d she said. \u201cI have good coworkers that support me and good bosses.\u201d\u00a0\n\nHer supervisor, Rachel, has seen that growth firsthand.\u00a0\n\n\u201cAs time has gone on, Maggie is able to go from one task to the next with minimal instruction,\u201d Rachel shared. \u201cMaggie is always looking for more tasks and different\u00a0responsibilities and\u00a0adopts those tasks by giving it her all.\u201d\u00a0\n\nPreparing for Employment\u00a0\n\nThe path to employment looks different for each person.\u00a0\n\nFor participants referred through Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), our team starts by\u00a0reviewing the individual's employment goal.\u00a0\u00a0Staff work directly with the participant to explore career options,\u00a0identify\u00a0positions that align with their goals, and build the skills necessary for successful employment.\u00a0Throughout the employment process, our team provides individualized support to help participants secure competitive employment. This includes assisting with job searches, completing applications, developing resumes, and following up with employers\u00a0regarding\u00a0opportunities. Job Coaches also help participants prepare for interviews through practice sessions, coaching, and guidance on professional communication and workplace expectations. Once a job offer is received, staff continue to support the participant through the onboarding process, helping them complete required paperwork,\u00a0understand\u00a0employer expectations, and\u00a0prepare\u00a0for a successful start. Our goal is to provide consistent support from\u00a0initial\u00a0job exploration through employment placement and transition into the workplace.\u00a0Hands-on activities in our vocational labs\u00a0provide\u00a0another opportunity to\u00a0observe\u00a0skills and workplace behaviors while exploring career paths that could be a good fit.\u00a0\n\nSupport Beyond the Hire\u00a0\n\nGetting hired can be the beginning of another important stage in the employment journey.\u00a0\n\nFor many participants referred through VR, job coaching continues for\u00a0approximately three\u00a0to six months after they secure employment, depending on the referral type. A job coach works with both the employee and employer during the transition into the workplace.\u00a0\n\nThis support is individualized. A job coach may help an employee learn job responsibilities, understand workplace expectations, strengthen communication, or use accommodations and strategies that support success on the job. As the employee gains confidence and independence, coaching is gradually reduced.\u00a0\n\nAt North Palm Beach Country Club, Rachel has seen the value of that support.\u00a0\n\n\u201cWe are very appreciative of the support that the job coaches have provided,\u201d she said.\u00a0\n\nInclusion Includes Employers\u00a0\n\nBusinesses are an important part of creating more inclusive employment opportunities. Today, 36 employers have employees who are currently receiving employment services from Els for Autism or who previously completed our services.\u00a0\n\nU Can Employ\u2122, powered by Els for Autism, helps businesses become more autism inclusive for their current staff, future employees, and customers. Depending on the needs of the organization, services can include staff training, one-on-one consultation, environmental assessments, document reviews, and workshops.\u00a0\n\nThis work also helps challenge misconceptions about employment and autism. Autistic adults are not limited to one type of job or only entry-level positions. Each person has their own abilities, interests, and career goals.\u00a0\n\nNational Disability Employment Awareness Month is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of workers with disabilities and encourage more businesses to consider what an inclusive workplace can look like.\u00a0\n\nFor Maggie, employment has meant learning new skills, taking on greater responsibility, and becoming more independent in a workplace where she feels supported. With individualized employment services and employers committed to inclusion, more individuals can have the opportunity to pursue work a job that fits their interests and goals\u00a0\n\nYou can learn more on our website about the Employment Services available at Els for Autism, including programs that help individuals prepare for, find, and maintain employment, as well as U Can Employ and the resources available to businesses looking to create more autism-inclusive workplaces.\u00a0\n","image":null,"date_day":1,"date_month":"Oct","date_year":2026},{"id":52563,"postID":"99b8dd4d-1393-06ae-fe1d-e341ddacb832","postName":"More Than Halloween: Why\u00a0Sensory-Friendly Celebrations Matter\u00a0","postDescription":"\nFor some individuals with autism, holidays can be difficult. Changes in routine, crowds, unfamiliar sounds, costumes, and decorations can make celebrations overwhelming. For individuals with more significant support needs, these challenges can make it especially difficult to take part in traditional community events.\u00a0\n\nThat is one of the reasons our\u00a0FALLoween\u00a0Festival, taking place October 10 from 9 AM to noon at The Els Center of Excellence\u00ae, was created with sensory needs in mind.\u00a0\n\nFALLoween\u00a0gives individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities and their families a chance to enjoy Halloween traditions in an environment designed to support\u00a0different needs\u00a0and ways of participating.\u00a0\n\nThinking About the Entire Experience\u00a0\n\nCreating an inclusive event means thinking about the experience from the moment a family arrives.\u00a0\n\nAt\u00a0FALLoween, activities are spread throughout The Els Center of Excellence rather than being packed into one crowded space. Families have room to move between activities, take their time, and enjoy the festivities at a pace that works for them.\u00a0\n\nEven the path into the celebration offers options. Guests can choose between two hallways to reach the festivities: one with a spooky Halloween experience and another that is not spooky. What feels fun and exciting to one person may be uncomfortable for someone else, and providing different experiences allows more people to take part.\u00a0\n\nThere Is No One Way to Participate\u00a0\n\nEvery person with autism is different, and that includes how they experience Halloween.\u00a0\n\nSome participants may love the costumes, decorations, and excitement of the day. Others may need more time before joining an activity or prefer a quieter experience.\u00a0\n\nSensory-friendly opportunities do not need to remove everything that makes a celebration fun. Instead, thoughtful planning can create an environment where individuals with\u00a0different needs\u00a0can enjoy the same community tradition alongside their families.\u00a0\n\nWhy Events Like This Matter\u00a0\n\nFamilies should have opportunities to enjoy community traditions together.\u00a0For families of individuals with autism, especially those with more significant support needs, finding an event that feels accessible is not always easy.\u00a0\n\nFALLoween\u00a0demonstrates how considering accessibility from the beginning can make a familiar tradition more welcoming. Creating space, flexibility, and\u00a0different ways\u00a0to\u00a0participate\u00a0can make a real difference for families who may otherwise feel unable to attend community events.\u00a0\n\nThat thinking extends beyond Halloween. When communities consider\u00a0different needs\u00a0from the start, more individuals with autism have opportunities to take part in the events and traditions happening around them.\u00a0\n\nMore Than Halloween\u00a0\n\nOn October 10, we look forward to opening The Els Center of Excellence to our community for a day filled with trick-or-treating, activities, costumes, and fall fun.\u00a0\n\nFALLoween\u00a0is a joyous day on our campus, and it takes the support of our community sponsors and volunteers to make it possible. Their involvement helps us create an experience where individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities can celebrate alongside their families and the broader community.\u00a0\n\nThat is what makes\u00a0FALLoween\u00a0Festival about\u00a0more than Halloween. It is a chance to open our campus to fun and possibilities while showing what can happen when a community makes room for\u00a0different ways\u00a0of participating.\u00a0\n","image":"https:\/\/www.elsforautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-03-at-9.48.47-AM-300x300.png","date_day":3,"date_month":"Sep","date_year":2026},{"id":52323,"postID":"6f533165-de5f-0448-433c-f964dee6ee14","postName":"2025 Movin\u2019 & Groovin\u2019 Summer Campers","postDescription":"\nOur amazing young artists from the 2025 Movin\u2019 & Groovin\u2019 Summer Camp spent 2\u20133 days creating vibrant, beach-inspired artwork. Guided by our talented art instructor, Andrew Blitman, campers explored their creativity through a variety of projects and crafts all summer long.\n\nMika does commissions and sells original designs on her website scratchpoststudio.com\nThis particular week, they learned how to use the foreground and background to bring depth to their paintings. The campers had a blast and were excited to contribute their pieces to the Pavilion display for the foundation!\n\nRecreation Services:\n\nParticipating in recreational activities is critically important for people with ASD and other developmental disabilities. Recreational activities and experiences foster feelings of achievement and enjoyment, and they promote inclusion, self-confidence, and an enhanced quality of life.\n\nOur recreation programs include a variety of sports and the arts on our campus in addition to our virtual groups available online.\n","image":"https:\/\/www.elsforautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Screenshot-2026-07-14-at-4.37.13-PM-300x300.png","date_day":14,"date_month":"Jul","date_year":2026},{"id":52255,"postID":"1ff525ce-27c4-c329-d95c-bab7542ec656","postName":"Expanding Access to Inclusive Sports for Individuals with Autism\u00a0","postDescription":"\n\nSports have the power to build confidence, foster friendships, teach life skills, and create a sense of belonging. Yet for many individuals with autism, finding coaches and recreation programs equipped to support their unique needs can be a challenge.\u00a0At Els for Autism\u00ae, we\u00a0created\u00a0the\u00a0Ernie Els #GameON Autism\u00ae Sports Program, a series of research-based programs designed to make recreation more accessible for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.\u00a0\n\nThrough golf, tennis, fitness, and aquatics,\u00a0participants\u00a0with autism develop social, communication, and motor skills in a supportive environment while building confidence and connections with others.\u00a0To expand access to these opportunities, Els for Autism also trains coaches, instructors, and recreation professionals through its Official Program Provider (OPP) network. OPPs receive specialized training and resources that help them deliver inclusive sports programming and better support individuals with autism.\u00a0Research shows that recreation can serve as\u00a0an\u00a0effective supplemental therapy\u00a0for individuals with autism, supporting physical health, social development, communication, and overall quality of life. However, many families still struggle to find instructors who feel equipped to meet their\u00a0children's\u00a0needs.\u00a0Ernie Els #GameON Autism Sports helps bridge that gap by equipping coaches and recreation professionals with practical tools, training, and evidence-based strategies to create more inclusive sports and recreation opportunities.\u00a0As summer begins, one area of focus is especially\u00a0timely: aquatics.\u00a0\n\nWater safety is a critical issue for the\u00a0autism community. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children with autism, who are significantly more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers. For many families, access to\u00a0swim\u00a0lessons and water safety instruction is not simply a recreational\u00a0opportunity;\u00a0it is a necessity.\u00a0\n\nRecognizing this need, Els for Autism continues to\u00a0expand its\u00a0offerings by adding\u00a0aquatics\u00a0to\u00a0the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Sports\u00a0Program. By training swim instructors in autism-friendly\u00a0teaching methods, the program aims to increase access to inclusive swim instruction and water safety education for families worldwide. Els for Autism will also incorporate these evidence-based methods into programming at the Specialized Autism-Friendly Recreation Complex, a first-of-its-kind facility currently under construction at The Els Center of Excellence opening\u00a0in spring 2027.\u00a0\n\nExpanding access to inclusive recreation starts with\u00a0training\u00a0existing sport providers. To continue growing this impact, Els for Autism is actively recruiting coaches, swim instructors, tennis professionals, fitness trainers, recreation providers, and organizations to become Official Program Providers of\u00a0the\u00a0Ernie Els\u00a0#GameON Autism Sports\u00a0Program.\u00a0Official Program Providers receive access to online training, evidence-based curriculum materials, implementation resources, and ongoing consultation from the Els for Autism team. With the right tools and support, recreation professionals can confidently welcome individuals with autism\u00a0and related disabilities\u00a0into their programs and create environments where every participant can succeed.\u00a0\n\nEvery coach, instructor, and recreation professional\u00a0has the ability to\u00a0make sports\u00a0more inclusive.\u00a0With the right training and support, they can help ensure that more individuals with autism have the opportunity to participate, connect, grow, and thrive.\u00a0\nTo learn more about becoming an Official Program Provider and our recreation services offerings, visit the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Sports\u00a0webpage\u00a0or contact\u00a0sports@elsforautism.org.\u00a0\n","image":null,"date_day":26,"date_month":"Jun","date_year":2026},{"id":52045,"postID":"3683c4ba-66be-bac7-1e21-ef42e40d4569","postName":"See how Andy turned hands-on training into meaningful employment in hospitality.\u00a0","postDescription":"\n\n","image":null,"date_day":4,"date_month":"Jun","date_year":2026},{"id":52033,"postID":"326c20c1-cd78-08a7-b59c-938460d69871","postName":"5 Tips for Summer Success for Individuals with Autism\u00a0\u00a0","postDescription":"\nSummer brings longer days, new routines, and more opportunities for outdoor fun. While the season can be exciting, it also\u00a0introduces\u00a0changes in structure, sensory experiences, and safety considerations\u00a0for\u00a0individuals with autism.\u00a0\n\nAt Els for Autism\u00ae, we know that a little preparation can go a long way in helping families enjoy a safer, more successful summer. Here are five tips to help support\u00a0sensory\u00a0regulation, safety, and fun throughout the season.\u00a0\n\n1. Keep Water Safety Conversations Ongoing\u00a0\n\nFor many families, summer means more time around pools and beaches. Consistent conversations about water safety can help reinforce expectations and routines before situations arise.\u00a0\n\n\u201cRegularly talk about water safety rules and expectations throughout the summer whenever you can,\u201d says Elizabeth Reisinger, CTRS, Recreation Services Manager at Els for Autism. \u201cWatching videos about swimming and safe water practices, reading books about water safety, and using consistent verbal and visual cues before and during the summer can help reinforce these important expectations.\u201d\u00a0\n\nAdult supervision plays a critical role in helping prevent accidents and keeping everyone safe around\u00a0water. Families should follow the ABCs of water safety: Adult Supervision, Barriers\u00a0(locks on doors, fences around pools, etc.), and Classes, including\u00a0swim\u00a0lessons, water safety education, and CPR training for caregivers.\u00a0\n\nOngoing preparation, supervision, and clear expectations throughout the summer can help promote safety and confidence around the water.\u00a0\n\n2. Prepare for Summer Sensory Changes\u00a0\n\nSummer introduces many new sensory experiences, from heat and humidity to sunscreen textures, loud outdoor spaces, wet clothing, and crowded environments.\u00a0\n\nMarissa Blankstein, Senior Manager of Behavior Services at Els for Autism, encourages families to proactively introduce these experiences before they become unavoidable during outings or vacations.\u00a0\n\n\u201cA few small proactive steps can make a big difference,\u201d she shares. \u201cPracticing wearing sunscreen at home, building in predictable cool-down breaks, and identifying a quiet shaded space during outings can help support regulation.\u201d\u00a0\n\nFamilies can also help children get comfortable with summer accessories like hats and sunglasses by incorporating them into dress-up play or wearing them around the house before outings. Lightweight clothing, seamless fabrics, and UV-protective rash guards may also help reduce discomfort while still protecting against the sun.\u00a0\n\n\u201cA regulated nervous system is the foundation for learning, communication, and enjoying all the fun summer has to offer,\u201d says Blankstein.\u00a0\u00a0\n\n3.\u00a0Maintain\u00a0Predictable Routines When Possible\u00a0\n\nSummer schedules often look\u00a0very different\u00a0from the school year. Vacations, camps, late nights, and changes in daily structure can sometimes increase stress or anxiety for individuals who thrive on predictability.\u00a0\n\nMaintaining a few consistent routines throughout the summer can help create a sense of stability. Visual schedules, countdown calendars, and simple daily plans can help support understanding of new summer routines, prepare individuals for upcoming activities, and ease transitions throughout the day.\u00a0\n\nEven small routines, like consistent\u00a0meal times, bedtime routines, or quiet breaks during the day, can help support regulation and reduce uncertainty during busy summer months.\u00a0\n\n4.\u00a0Plan Ahead\u00a0for Community Outings\u00a0\n\nBusy summer destinations like amusement parks, airports, beaches, festivals, restaurants, and community events can quickly become overstimulating.\u00a0\n\nPreparing ahead of time can help make outings more successful and reduce stress for both individuals and caregivers. Before heading out, families may find it helpful to review expectations, bring preferred comfort items or sensory supports,\u00a0identify\u00a0quiet break spaces, and allow extra transition time between activities.\u00a0\n\nHaving a flexible exit plan can also help reduce pressure if\u00a0an\u00a0environment becomes too overwhelming. Sometimes knowing there is\u00a0an option\u00a0to take a break or leave early can make participation feel more manageable from the start.\u00a0\n\n5. Prioritize Rest, Hydration, and Regulation\u00a0\n\nHeat and dehydration can\u00a0impact\u00a0mood, attention, sensory regulation, and overall comfort. Supporting physical needs throughout the day can make summer activities more enjoyable and successful.\u00a0\n\nFrequent water breaks, shaded rest periods, cooling towels, and downtime between activities can help prevent exhaustion and sensory overload. Families can also encourage hydration in creative ways, such as offering popsicles, flavored waters, or fun reusable water bottles that make drinking water more appealing throughout the day. Choosing hydrating options over sugary juices can also help support energy and comfort in the heat.\u00a0\n\nIt\u2019s\u00a0also important to recognize that sensory regulation may look different from day to day, especially during busy summer months.\u00a0\n\nSummer looks different for every family, and success does not have to mean packed schedules or perfectly planned days.\u00a0With thoughtful preparation, flexibility, and the right supports in place, individuals with autism can safely and comfortably enjoy all the experiences summer has to offer, from pool days and vacations to community outings and time spent outdoors.\u00a0\n","image":"https:\/\/www.elsforautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Screenshot-2026-06-01-at-11.06.16-AM-300x300.png","date_day":1,"date_month":"Jun","date_year":2026},{"id":51881,"postID":"15408c47-c0a3-4598-f950-ba6e1e32b09f","postName":"From work experience to real opportunity","postDescription":"\nCade\u2019s story shows what\u2019s possible with your support.\n\n","image":"https:\/\/www.elsforautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Screenshot-2026-05-07-at-9.48.32-AM-300x300.png","date_day":7,"date_month":"May","date_year":2026},{"id":51815,"postID":"55f1e861-17ec-8d05-101d-d39dd910be1d","postName":"The Caregiving Journey: Supporting Children with Autism at Every Stage","postDescription":"\nMother\u2019s Day is a time to recognize the many ways parents and caregivers of children with autism navigate a lifelong\u00a0journey. Each stage of life can bring new challenges, new decisions, and new perspectives.\u00a0At Els for Autism, we support families through all stages of life, from early childhood through adulthood.\u00a0Our board\u00a0member,\u00a0Pam\u00a0Minelli,\u00a0shares her family\u2019s experience with these transitions in her book,\u00a0The Kindness of Strangers: Letting Go of My Son with Autism. Her story reflects many of the\u00a0moments\u00a0families navigate over time and offers\u00a0an\u00a0example of how the caregiving role can evolve.\u00a0\n\nThe Beginning: Facing the Unknown\u00a0\n\nFor many families, the autism journey starts with questions: a missed milestone, a concern raised by a teacher or doctor, or a realization that something may be different\u00a0with\u00a0their child.\u00a0\n\nFrom there, things can move quickly. Families may begin evaluations, receive a diagnosis, and be introduced to a range of therapies and services. Parents and caregivers are often navigating unfamiliar systems while learning how to coordinate care and make informed decisions for their child.\u00a0\n\nIn her book, Pam describes those early days as\u00a0overwhelming\u00a0but\u00a0also motivating. Like many parents and caregivers, she and her husband focused on finding the right support for their son, Andrew, and understanding what would help him succeed.\u00a0\n\nBuilding a System of Support\u00a0After the\u00a0initial\u00a0period following a diagnosis, many families begin to\u00a0establish\u00a0routines and next steps.\u00a0Schedules may include therapies, school plans, and appointments. Parents and caregivers begin learning more about their child\u2019s needs and, over time, may take on a greater role in\u00a0identifying\u00a0and\u00a0advocating for\u00a0resources and opportunities.\u00a0\n\nAt the same time, many families build connections with others, including other parents and caregivers, professionals, and community members. These relationships can provide guidance\u00a0and\u00a0support. Structured programs can also play a role. For example, parent training programs like\u00a0RUBI (Research Units in Behavioral Intervention)\u00a0are designed to give parents and caregivers strategies to better understand behavior and support their child at home.\u00a0\n\nPam\u2019s experience reflects this shift. Over time, her involvement extended beyond her own family, working alongside others to help create opportunities for individuals with autism more broadly.\u00a0\n\nSupport during this stage can come in many forms, both formal and informal, and often\u00a0becomes\u00a0an important part of how families move forward.\u00a0\n\nPlanning for Adulthood\u00a0\n\nAs children move into their teenage years and adulthood, the focus often begins to shift.\u00a0\n\nParents and caregivers may start thinking about long-term plans, including education, employment, and living arrangements. These decisions can be complex and\u00a0don\u2019t\u00a0always have clear answers.\u00a0\n\nThere is often a balance between encouraging independence and ensuring the right level of support. At Els for Autism, this stage is a key focus, with programs designed to support teens and adults in building life skills, exploring employment pathways, and increasing independence over time.\u00a0\n\nThis stage can feel uncertain, even after years of experience navigating services and systems. Over time, many families find their way forward by continuing to learn, adjust, and focus on what will best support their child in the long term.\u00a0\n\nLetting Go, While Staying Involved\u00a0\n\nOne of the more complex transitions for some families is supporting a child\u2019s move toward greater independence.\u00a0This might include transitioning into a group home or another supported living environment. For parents and caregivers, this can bring a mix of emotions, including concern, hesitation, and adjustment.\u00a0\n\nPam shares this experience\u00a0in\u00a0her own journey. The decision to transition her son into a group home took time and careful consideration.\u00a0Over time, she saw that this change allowed her son to grow in new ways, while she\u00a0remained\u00a0closely involved\u00a0in his life.\u00a0\n\nFor some families, this stage\u00a0represents\u00a0a shift in how caregiving looks. The role does not end, but it may change over time.\u00a0\n\nThe Importance of Support\u00a0\n\nAcross every stage, support matters.\u00a0\n\nCaregiving can be easier to navigate when families have access to resources, programs, and community. Whether it is early intervention, recreation programs, or adult services, consistent support can help make transitions more manageable.\u00a0\n\nMany families also point to the role of their community, including other parents and caregivers, professionals, educators, and neighbors. These connections can provide guidance, shared experiences, and practical help. In some cases, it is advice from another parent. In others, it is a professional helping navigate next steps or a community member offering support when it is needed.\u00a0Els for Autism provides care coordination services, including individual and family counseling, to help guide families through these experiences and support their overall well-being.\u00a0\n\nOver time, these relationships can become an important part of how families make decisions, access resources, and move forward.\u00a0\n\nRecognizing Caregivers\u00a0\n\nThere is no single path for families\u00a0raising\u00a0a child with autism.\u00a0Each experience is different, and each stage brings its own set of decisions. What\u00a0remains\u00a0consistent is the role of parents and caregivers in supporting their children as they grow and develop.\u00a0\n\nThis Mother\u2019s Day, we recognize the parents and caregivers who take on that role every day.\u00a0At Els for Autism, we are committed to\u00a0supporting\u00a0families across\u00a0the lifespan, because while needs may change over time, the need for support\u00a0remains.\u00a0\n\n","image":null,"date_day":1,"date_month":"May","date_year":2026},{"id":51714,"postID":"3e5b5ca9-01d1-646a-086e-9e82abe5d160","postName":"World Autism Month: The Global Impact of Els for Autism","postDescription":"\nAutism affects individuals and families across every race, culture, and socioeconomic background around the world. At Els for Autism, we are devoted to helping children and adults with autism and their families have a better life. Our\u00a0purpose\u00a0is to help people with autism of all abilities and backgrounds reach their fullest potential and live meaningful, fulfilling lives, no matter where they live.\u00a0\n\nWhile many know our central hub as\u00a0The Els Center of Excellence\u00ae\u00a0in Jupiter, Florida, our impact extends far beyond South Florida. This April,\u00a0World Autism Month, we are proud to share more about our global organizations and the communities they serve.\n\nToday, our reach spans 38 countries, along with dedicated foundations in the USA, Canada, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. Together, we are building a global network focused on expanding access to services, increasing acceptance, and creating opportunities for individuals with autism to be fully included in their communities.\u00a0\n\nEach of our international foundations serves its local community while advancing one shared goal: helping individuals with autism live positive, productive, and fulfilling lives.\n\nEls for Autism Canada\n\nEstablished in 2013, Els for Autism Canada was created to address the needs of individuals with autism and their families across the country.\n\nThrough annual Golf Challenge events held nationwide, funds raised stay local. Proceeds are distributed through a structured granting process to registered Canadian charities, directly supporting families in the communities where the events take place.\n\nSince its inception, Els for Autism Canada has hosted 54 events, raised $6.3 million, and granted $3 million to local autism organizations. In 2025 alone, five events generated $475,000, with $275,000 directed toward local grant funding.\n\nGrant support has helped fund recreation and fitness programs, music therapy, summer camps, transition-to-adulthood services, digital arts programs for teens, and community education initiatives.\n\nBeyond grant-making, Els for Autism Canada also supports\u00a0Ernie Els #GameON Autism\u00ae\u00a0golf clinics in four provinces and\u00a0U Can Employ\u2122, a social enterprise that helps businesses successfully hire and support employees with autism.\n\nBy keeping funds local and investing in community partnerships, Els for Autism Canada continues to create meaningful and lasting impact nationwide.\n\nEls for Autism South Africa\n\nFounded in 2011, Els for Autism South Africa was established to provide lower-resourced families with access to effective autism support at no cost. Parents visit the center once or twice per month to learn practical strategies they can implement at home, building skills that create long-term impact.\n\nServices include short-term parent coaching, longer-term parent-led intervention, and caregiver support groups. They also provide direct training and consultations for educations and other professionals working with people with autism. In addition, Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf Clinics are hosted for individuals ages 6 to 23, using sport to promote life skills development, social interaction, and healthy living. The organization also runs\u00a0Ernie Els #GameON Autism Tennis and Fitness programs.\u00a0\n\nBy equipping families with knowledge, tools, and confidence, Els for Autism South Africa is creating sustainable change and expanding opportunity for children and young adults on the spectrum.\n\nEls for Autism United Kingdom\n\nEls for Autism United Kingdom was established in 2011 to support organizations that provide services to individuals with autism across the UK and Ireland.\n\nThrough fundraising efforts and strategic partnerships, the foundation helps expand access to programs that make a meaningful difference for families. A primary focus has been supporting the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf program through Official Program Providers in England and Ireland.\n\nThe Golf Trust, the leading Official Program Provider in the UK, has delivered the 12-week golf program for multiple years, reaching thousands of participants. Furthermore, they have trained a multitude of golf instructors in implementing the program across England. The program includes pre- and post-assessments measuring fitness, golf skills, and social communication development, with participants demonstrating measurable improvement across multiple areas.\n\nIn Ireland, the program has been delivered in partnership with academic and community institutions, further strengthening its reach and credibility. Recognition from national sport inclusion organizations has highlighted the impact of this work in creating accessible recreational opportunities for individuals with autism.\n\nOne Mission.\u00a0Global Impact.\n\nWhile each foundation serves a unique community, all are connected by a shared vision: a world where individuals with autism have access to the support and opportunities they need to thrive.\n\nThis World Autism Month, we celebrate the global community that makes this work possible.","image":null,"date_day":6,"date_month":"Apr","date_year":2026},{"id":51448,"postID":"fb522177-9159-3a5a-e65a-bddba8d66770","postName":"The Difference Early Intervention Makes: Ashton\u2019s Journey","postDescription":"\nAshton, a young client in the Early Intensive Behavior Intervention (EIBI) program at Els for Autism\u00ae, has made meaningful progress through individualized, one-on-one support.\n\nWhen Ashton first joined the program, he did not look to others for connection or enjoyment. He would approach adults mainly to get what he wanted and showed little interest in interacting with other children.\n\nToday, Ashton seeks connection with both peers and adults, shares joyful smiles, and shows strong joint attention skills. These changes show how much he is growing in communication and social skills.\n\nThe EIBI program gives young children with autism individualized support to help them learn communication, social skills, play, and daily living skills. The program uses proven strategies from Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and measures progress carefully. Small class sizes and guidance for parents help children succeed long term.\n\nMarissa Blankstein, Senior Manager of Behavior Services, said: \u201cAshton\u2019s progress shows what is possible when early intervention is paired with consistent, personalized support. Seeing him go from limited engagement to enjoying time with others has been amazing for his family and our team.\u201d\n\nAshton\u2019s story shows the difference early support can make. Your donation helps provide individualized programs and resources so children with autism can connect, communicate, and reach their full potential. Give today to help more children like Ashton grow and thrive.\n\n[elsButton url=\"https:\/\/form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io\/give\/els-for-autism-foundation\/general-donation-form\" text=\"Donate Now\" ]\n*Disclaimer: The client\u2019s name has been changed to protect their identity.*\n","image":"https:\/\/www.elsforautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/week-8-300x300.jpg","date_day":5,"date_month":"Mar","date_year":2026}]