[{"id":51881,"postID":"884c746b-ec8a-8539-f274-bc3a11adabba","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":"f18b8a66-63dd-c0b4-cabf-9f3ca20ae4b1","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":"005eeb8d-3272-0449-6294-af16034b710f","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":"02755adf-1fbc-6ceb-f3cc-eac5ee5e5fa6","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},{"id":51441,"postID":"02f6fc32-cb4a-602d-6b85-19341c6450d0","postName":"From Training to Triumph: Alex\u2019s Employment Journey","postDescription":"\nAlex's journey to employment is a story of hard work, growth, and strong support. He first joined the Els for Autism Work Experience Program at the Jupiter Medical Center Distribution Center, where helearned job skills in a warehouse setting and explored what working in the community could look like. After completing the Work Experience Program, Alex became a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) client, which is how he began working closely with his job coach, Chelsea. At the same time, he also participated in our Career Exploration and Training (CET) Program, attending hospitality and foodservice classes three days a week to strengthen his job readiness skills. \n\nThrough weekly meetings with Chelsea, Alex practiced interviewing, searched for job opportunities, and went on several interviews. He also took part in our Spoken Wheel group to improve his social skills and interactions in the workplace. In addition, Alex used Yoodli, a free Al tool that helps individuals practice communication and interview skills through roleplay and feedback. All of these experiences helped Alex build confidence and prepare for real-world employment. \n\nWith dedication and the guidance of the Els for Autism Employment Program Team, Alex was hired by Kyma, a Greek restaurant in West Palm Beach. Chelsea supported him throughout the process. \"Alexshowed so much dedication throughout this process and was always open to feedback and learning. He worked hard to improve, stayed positive, and never gave up on his goal. I am extremely proud of everything he accomplished,\" said Chelsea. Alex's father, Norman, who volunteers with Els for Autism in support of the Planned Giving Program, shared how grateful he is for the guidance andencouragement his son received and thanked the team for helping Alex succeed. \n\nThe Els for Autism Employment Program Team connects adults with meaningful jobs while helping local employers fill important roles. With the support of your donation, more individuals like Alex can gain the skills and confidence needed to achieve meaningful employment. Please consider making agift today and help create more success stories for adults with autism.\n","image":"https:\/\/www.elsforautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/182763182736187312-300x300.jpg","date_day":26,"date_month":"Feb","date_year":2026},{"id":51287,"postID":"86998aab-7919-4025-9ddb-da90badf176b","postName":"Stanley Black & Decker Executive Chair Donald Allan Jr. Appointed Board Chair of Els for Autism","postDescription":"\nEls for Autism is pleased to announce the appointment of its new board chair, Donald (Don) Allan, Jr. Allan has been a valued partner of Els for Autism both personally and professionally through Stanley Black & Decker, where he now serves as Executive Chair after previously holding the role of President and CEO.\n\u201cI too have family members who are impacted by autism,\u201d said Allan. \u201cFor years, I watched them struggle with some of the complexities, just trying to get the support they needed. As a family, we all work together to navigate that journey.\u201d\n\nAllan was first introduced to Els for Autism by participating in the Els for Autism Golf Challenge regional event series. \u201cI was aware of Ernie Els and his golf career and watched him flourish and achieve everything he did on the golf course. However, I was not aware of what was happening here in Florida to support the autism community.\u201d\n\nAfter learning more about The Els Center of Excellence and the life-changing programs provided by the Els for Autism team to support thousands of families of children with autism of all ages, Allan became instrumental in bringing Stanley Black & Decker on board as a major supporter.\n\n\u201cOne of the things I have always said about Stanley Black & Decker is that there are three things that make this company great: our people, our brands, and the innovation we bring to our end users,\u201d Allan shared. \u201cBut it starts with the people, not just talented people who do good jobs, but people who are truly invested in our company, our community, and each other.\n\n\u201cWhen I think about community and being invested in one another, autism has a huge place in that discussion,\u201d Allan added. \u201cIt\u2019s about asking how we ensure we\u2019re not leaving anyone behind, and how we help everyone succeed in some way, shape, or form.\u201d\n\nAs a champion of Els for Autism, Allan has helped lead Stanley Black & Decker\u2019s involvement as a National Sponsor of the Golf Challenge since 2023. In addition to the company\u2019s sponsorship, Allan also serves as co-chair of the annual Connecticut Golf Challenge regional event.\n\nIn 2023, Stanley Black & Decker donated $100,000 to name one of our vocational labs, located in the Stoops Family Adult Services Building, and contributed equipment and tools to outfit the lab. Autistic adults are now learning basic carpentry and woodworking skills in the Stanley Black & Decker Lab.\n\nA few months later, Stanley Black & Decker pledged $5 million to name the gymnasium within the Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex at The Els Center of Excellence set to open in 2027. \u201cIt\u2019s not about me personally,\u201d Allan said. \u201cIt\u2019s about a company that is extremely generous.\u201d\n\nWhen sharing his involvement with Els for Autism, Allan has seen how large the autism community has become. \u201cIt\u2019s amazing how many people are living with family members who have autism, but don\u2019t often talk about it in everyday social settings,\u201d he said. \u201cThrough those conversations, I\u2019ve realized just how significant this is for our communities and our world, and it\u2019s truly an honor to be part of it.\u201d\n\n\u201cOn behalf of Marvin Shanken and my wife, Liezl, we are deeply thankful for the many years of support Don has already given,\u201d said Ernie Els, former World No. 1, World Golf Hall of Famer, four-time Major Champion, and co-founder of Els for Autism. \u201cNow, as board chair, we know he will guide our team as we continue to serve more families around the globe impacted by autism.\u201d\n\nWith Allan\u2019s leadership as board chair, Els for Autism is poised to continue advancing its mission, expanding its global impact, and creating a world of limitless possibilities for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families.\n\n[elsButton url=\"https:\/\/www.elsforautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/FOR-IMMEDIATE-RELEASE_Don-Allan-Appointed-Board-Chair-of-Els-For-Autism99.pdf\" text=\"View Press Release\" target=\"_blank\" ]","image":"https:\/\/www.elsforautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/BEN_9142-300x300.jpg","date_day":17,"date_month":"Feb","date_year":2026},{"id":51093,"postID":"8c49f530-cc90-ae23-e21b-eed7da3b5962","postName":"Feeling 22","postDescription":"\nAutism Programs & Services After Age 22: In-Person and Virtual Programs for Autistic Adults \n\nEls for Autism offers lifelong support for autistic adults through employment services, adult day training, therapy, recreation, and virtual programs - well beyond age 22\n\n\u201cI don\u2019t know about you, but I\u2019m feeling 22. Everything will be alright if\u2026\u201d goes the lyrics in Taylor Swift\u2019s \u201c22\u201d song. So, what comes after \u201cif\u201d if you\u2019re on the spectrum? The Els for Autism team is here to provide solutions for individuals with autism and their families after they turn 22, as this is the age when many essential programs and services they have relied on their entire lives stop.\nBen Els, the son of two of our founders, was diagnosed with autism as a child. Planning for his future and the future of hundreds of families, Ernie and Liezl Els knew it was important that the Els for Autism team support individuals across the lifespan through evidence-based programs and services. \u201cWe wanted to be different; that\u2019s why we built the Stoops Family Adult Services Building to provide a place for adults to continue receiving the programs and services they deserve,\u201d said Ernie Els to the local NBC station at the grand opening of the Stoops Family Adults Services Building.\n\nSince opening the building in 2023, the number of adults in the Els for Autism Adult Day Training (ADT) program has nearly tripled. In fact, some of the adults in the program have been receiving programs and services from the Els for Autism team since the campus opened in 2015. Other families moved from across the country so their adult child could continue receiving the care they need.\n\nHowever, there are so many additional services the Els for Autism team offers for adults with autism including mental health counseling, speech & language, and occupational therapy. The Els for Autism Employment Team also works with individuals looking for employment to place them with companies looking to hire individuals with autism. One client\u2019s mom said her daughter, Sarah, has been \u2018reborn\u2019 upon completing our Work Experience (WE) program. \"The confidence that she has now in herself and her spirit of being able to say, \u2018I have a job, I\u2019m going to work, I\u2019m contributing,\u2019 makes her a much more fulfilled person.\" \n\nOur Recreation Services Team also provides extensive programs for adults to participate in recreation and sports. Our recreation programs teach both introductory skills to various sports and build upon social and communication skills throughout each lesson. For years, Alexandra\u2019s parents searched for a place where she could grow, connect, and truly shine. \u201cIt is a joy to see how much she cherishes her interactions with both the instructors and fellow students at The Els Center of Excellence,\u201d said Alexandra\u2019s parents. \u201cShe not only loves the independence of attending her classes, but it is heartwarming to see how each class brings out a separate challenge for her and hones her unique skills. It\u2019s hard to imagine her life without them. We're so grateful this opportunity exists in our community.\u201d With the building of our Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex, set to open in 2027, we will be able to serve even more adults with autism through our recreation programs.\n\nOur team also offers several virtual programs and services to adults with autism to continue to support them well beyond 22. These include the two online social clubs, Connections Club & Spoken Wheel Society, the Spectrum Book Club, and virtual yoga. Finally, our Ernie Els #GameON Autism Sports Programs can be brought to any community to bring the game of golf, tennis, fitness, and soon aquatics by becoming an Official Program Provider.\n\nSo, no matter where you call home and no matter your age, Els for Autism is here to ensure you and your loved ones live a lifetime full of limitless possibilities.\n","image":null,"date_day":26,"date_month":"Jan","date_year":2026},{"id":50987,"postID":"9fd0192e-ab48-d421-6903-315dcad539a1","postName":"The State of the Science","postDescription":"\nThe Els for Autism team provides only evidence-based programs and services. To develop these programs, however, research must be an essential part of our work. Our highly trained clinicians continually conduct studies and submit articles for publication to share best practices with families and professionals in the field.\n\nHere is a recap of the articles published by our team in 2025.\u00a0\u00a0\n\nThe Importance of Fitness Training for Autistic IndividualsBy: Nate Shanok, PhD, Research Coordinator\u00a0\n\nResearch has shown that recreation, specifically sports, can be an effective supplemental therapy for individuals with autism. However, autistic individuals tend to live more sedentary lifestyles. To reverse this trend, Els for Autism offers a variety of recreation programs and services.\u00a0\u00a0\n\n\u201cBeyond getting a quality workout, students experience tremendous joy as they improve their skills and rally with peers or coaches,\u201d observed Shanok. \u201cIt\u2019s clear that fitness and sport-based programs cultivate valuable social bonding experiences.\u201d\u00a0\n\nExploring Recreation Therapy for Individuals with Autism: Exercise to Improve Socialization, Self-confidence, and IndependenceBy Elizabeth Reisinger, CTRS, Recreation Services Manager\u00a0\n\nExercise is a proven, evidence-based intervention for individuals with autism, promoting development in social, emotional, and independent skills. Through our recreation programs, participants engage in conversations, help review class objectives, and cheer for others - activities that boost self-confidence, with many individuals reporting they feel \u201cstronger\u201d and \u201chappier.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\n\nManaging Anxiety: Tools and Strategies for Emotional BalanceBy: Amanda Trovato, PsyD, Senior Manager of Therapeutic Services\u00a0\n\nUp to 40 percent of individuals with autism also experience clinically significant anxiety, often due to sensory sensitivities and difficulty with unpredictability. The most successful way to help support anxiety in individuals with autism includes a multifaceted approach considering all sensory, emotional, and cognitive needs.\u00a0\n\nPsychoeducation, exposure, cognitive restructuring, and relaxation techniques can all be utilized to help manage anxiety with the support of caregivers.\u00a0\n\nModernizing your cultural infrastructure through autism inclusionBy Erin Brooker Lozott, Ed.D., BCBA-D, CCC-SLP, Program Director; and Marlene Sotelo, Ed.D., BCBA-D, MT-BC, Executive Director\u00a0\n\nWith more than 5.4 million autistic adults in the U.S., and over 70,000 entering adulthood each year, creating an autism inclusive workplace isn\u2019t just a social responsibility; it\u2019s a strategic investment that strengthens culture, widens the talent pool, and drives long-term organizational growth.\u00a0\n\nCompanies should build an inclusion plan with measurable goals, defined focus areas, and clear action steps. Technology, including assistive tools and AI-supported communication, can also play a pivotal role in helping autistic employees thrive.\u00a0\n\nBeyond Words: Overcoming Barriers to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for Autistic IndividualsBy: Amanda Lopez, MS, CCC-SLP, Lead Speech-Language Pathologist Programs and Projects Specialist; and Victoria Giannone, MA, CCC-SLP, ASDCS, Lead Speech-Language Pathologist-Clinical Operations Specialist\u00a0\n\nSpeech-language pathologists work to enhance communication and independence in autistic individuals through the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) AAC tools.\u00a0\n\nHowever, AAC use is often limited by barriers such as lack of knowledge, negative attitudes, and financial constraints. Training communication partners and advocating for better resources, funding, and customized communication systems are essential for improving access and supporting AAC users\u2019 communication competence.\u00a0\n\nAutism Language and Symbols Preferences: Insights from a Cross-Cultural SurveyBy Jose Martinez, PhD, BCBA-D, Behavior Analyst; Erin Brooker Lozott, Ed.D., BCBA-D, CCC-SLP; Marlene Sotelo, Ed.D., BCBA-D, MT-BC\u00a0\n\nThis study examined preferences for person-first language (PFL), identity-first language (IFL), symbols, and terminology.\u00a0\n\nAutistic individuals largely preferred IFL, the infinity loop, and Autism Acceptance Month, reflecting neurodiversity-aligned, identity-affirming views. Parents and professionals favored PFL, the puzzle ribbon, and Autism Awareness Month, aligning with more traditional medicalized perspectives.\u00a0\n\nThe findings highlight the need for inclusive, flexible language use. Honoring individual preferences and using both PFL and IFL when appropriate supports respect and clarity across research, policy, and practice.\u00a0\n","image":"https:\/\/www.elsforautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/stateofthe-300x300.png","date_day":7,"date_month":"Jan","date_year":2026},{"id":50973,"postID":"f6a08e29-21e9-4646-a407-ed4c7f933bb2","postName":"Els for Autism\u00ae Advisory Board Member and Publix Employee Raises $100,000 to Support Employment\u00a0for Autistic\u00a0Adults\u00a0","postDescription":"\nAnonymous donor\u2019s $58,000 contribution completes fundraising goal\n\nJupiter, Fla. - Els for Autism is committed to creating a world of inclusion and endless opportunities for individuals with autism. Connor Sturgis, an Els for Autism Advisory Board member and graduate of the charter school located at The Els Center of Excellence\u00ae campus, is a powerful testament to that mission.\nFor more than 12 years, Connor has worked at Publix, earning multiple promotions throughout his tenure. Seeing the importance of inclusive programs that support adults with autism, he took the initiative to launch the \u201cConnor & Friends Care\u201d campaign. \u201cI\u2019m trying to raise $100,000 to help young adults get jobs out in the community, like they helped me get a job at Publix,\u201d he said.\n\nThanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, Connor has officially reached his fundraising goal! After touring The Els Center of Excellence campus, the donor later visited a Publix store and saw Connor working. Inspired by that moment, the donor decided to give the remaining amount he needed to reach his goal, $58,000. \u201cI wanted him to have a great Christmas, so I was inspired to give,\u201d the donor shared.\n\nFunds raised through the Connor & Friends Care campaign will support Adult Programs and Services at Els for Autism\u00ae, including Employment Services. Each day at The Els Center of Excellence campus, \u201cConnor\u2019s friends\u201d are building real-world job skills in vocational labs designed to prepare them for meaningful employment in the community.\n\nMembers of the media are invited to visit the campus to see clients working in our vocational labs and speak with Connor about his career at Publix.\n\nMedia Inquiries:Rachel SolerPublic Relations, Els for AutismRachel.Soler@ElsforAutism.org812.550.4353\n\nAbout Els for Autism Foundation\u00aeEstablished in 2009 by World Golf Hall of Famer Ernie Els, his wife Liezl, and honorary chair Marvin R. Shanken, the Els for Autism Foundation is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their caregivers through comprehensive lifespan services and collaborative partnerships. Els for Autism has reached families and professionals in 38 countries around the globe. In addition to its U.S. location, Els for Autism has foundations in Canada, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.\n","image":null,"date_day":7,"date_month":"Jan","date_year":2026},{"id":50859,"postID":"d0203bba-114b-5e6b-c9f2-644221c682eb","postName":"2025 In Review: Our Top 5 of 2025","postDescription":"\nThis year's theme, \u201cHonor Our Legacy, Fuel Our Future,\u201d celebrates the lasting legacy we have built since we opened The Els Center of Excellence\u00ae campus 10 years ago while looking ahead to the future with the groundbreaking of our Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex.\n\nThroughout the year, we witnessed incredible breakthroughs and celebrated meaningful milestones with the individuals and families we serve. While there were countless memorable moments, we\u2019ve narrowed it down to Our Top 5 of 2025!\n\nInaugural Neon Nights Held to Celebrate a Decade of Excellence\nOn August 18, our campus officially turned 10 years old. Year after year, the vision of our founders has come to life as The Els Center of Excellence evolved from a plot of land into a one-of-a-kind campus that families around the world relocate to be part of so their child can receive education, therapy, and support, all in one place.\n\nTo celebrate our milestone anniversary and remarkable growth, we opened the campus to the community on August 23 for our inaugural Neon Nights. Our Events Team transformed the campus into a glowing, 80s-themed celebration complete with a lively dance floor, glow golf competitions, and South Florida\u2019s top food trucks serving delicious delights.\n\nThis year\u2019s Neon Nights benefited the construction of our Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex - which brings us to our second highlight!\nGroundbreaking of the Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex\n\nFulfilling a long-term vision of our founders, on August 28 we broke ground on a Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex, a transformative addition to our campus.\nThis state-of-the-art facility will be the first ASPECTSS\u00ae-compliant sports and recreation complex in the U.S., using a research-based architectural design framework tailored for individuals with autism.\n\nThe complex will include:A purpose-built gymnasium designed to reduce sensory overload, offering year-round access to basketball, yoga, and fitness programs\n\nAn aquatics center providing life-saving swim instruction and water safety education - especially crucial in Florida, where drowning is the leading cause of death for children with autism\n\nA teaching kitchen and multipurpose dining area to support life skills development and community programs\n\nSensory escape spaces, a splash pad, and therapeutic fitness rooms for safe, inclusive play for healthy livingAnother major milestone this year was receiving a $2.5 million appropriation from the State of Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities, bringing total state funding for the complex to $4.4 million over the past three years.\nErnie Els #GameON Autism\u00ae Aquatics Program Developed\n\nThis year, the Ernie Els #GameON Autism\u00ae Sports program expanded to include aquatics. While all of our sports programs promote physical health, social skills, and emotional well-being, the new aquatics program was designed to also save lives.\nWith drowning being the leading cause of death for children with autism, this program provides specialized swim instruction tailored to the unique learning styles of individuals on the spectrum.\n\nThe curriculum focuses on:Building essential water safety awareness and swim skills\n\nIncreasing confidence and independence in aquatic environments\n\nSupporting social engagement and communication through structured group lessons\n\nUsing evidence-based strategies to track progress and outcomes\n\nCADI Through the Lifespan\n\nOur Collaborative Autism Diagnosis and Intervention (CADI) program expanded to provide diagnostic services across the entire lifespan, from early childhood through adulthood.\nThis expansion was needed, especially for teens and adults, as there is now greater awareness, improved screening and diagnostic tools, and expanded definitions of autism.\n\nBy offering CADI services across the lifespan, we can ensure individuals receive timely evaluations and customized care plans that support their strengths, goals, and long-term potential, no matter their age.Career Exploration & Training (CET)\n\nFinally, in 2025, we launched the Career Exploration & Training (CET) program, empowering adults with autism to explore their strengths, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for meaningful careers.\nThis innovative initiative offers training and career discovery across multiple industries, including basic carpentry, hotel and hospitality, office and clerical essentials, retail, and food service.\n\nParticipants receive personalized coaching, r\u00e9sum\u00e9 and interview preparation, and real-world practice inside our state-of-the-art vocational labs. Our labs were built to provide safe, realistic environments designed to build workplace-ready skills.\n\nAll training is focused on fostering independence, confidence, and long-term success in the workforce. This program was made possible through a generous grant from NEXT for AUTISM.As we close out this eventful and memorable year, we extend our gratitude to the families who entrust us to support their children through our programs and services. We are also thankful for every donor, volunteer, and community partner who supported our mission in 2025.\n\nFrom small moments to major milestones, your generosity this year pushed us closer to a world of endless opportunities for individuals with autism.\n","image":"https:\/\/www.elsforautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1K7A4341.jpg","date_day":2,"date_month":"Dec","date_year":2025}]