Ashton, a young client in the Early Intensive Behavior Intervention (EIBI) program at Els for Autism®, has made meaningful progress through individualized, one-on-one support.

When 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.

Today, 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.

The 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.

Marissa Blankstein, Senior Manager of Behavior Services, said: “Ashton’s 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.”

Ashton’s 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.

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*Disclaimer: The client’s name has been changed to protect their identity.*

Alex’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 he
learned 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 food
service classes three days a week to strengthen his job readiness skills.

Through 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.

With 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. “Alex
showed 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 and
encouragement his son received and thanked the team for helping Alex succeed.

The 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 a
gift today and help create more success stories for adults with autism.

Els 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.

“I too have family members who are impacted by autism,” said Allan. “For 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.”

Allan was first introduced to Els for Autism by participating in the Els for Autism Golf Challenge regional event series. “I 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.”

After 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.

“One 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,” Allan shared. “But 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.

“When I think about community and being invested in one another, autism has a huge place in that discussion,” Allan added. “It’s about asking how we ensure we’re not leaving anyone behind, and how we help everyone succeed in some way, shape, or form.”

As a champion of Els for Autism, Allan has helped lead Stanley Black & Decker’s involvement as a National Sponsor of the Golf Challenge since 2023. In addition to the company’s sponsorship, Allan also serves as co-chair of the annual Connecticut Golf Challenge regional event.

In 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.

A 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. “It’s not about me personally,” Allan said. “It’s about a company that is extremely generous.”

When sharing his involvement with Els for Autism, Allan has seen how large the autism community has become. “It’s amazing how many people are living with family members who have autism, but don’t often talk about it in everyday social settings,” he said. “Through those conversations, I’ve realized just how significant this is for our communities and our world, and it’s truly an honor to be part of it.”

“On behalf of Marvin Shanken and my wife, Liezl, we are deeply thankful for the many years of support Don has already given,” said Ernie Els, former World No. 1, World Golf Hall of Famer, four-time Major Champion, and co-founder of Els for Autism. “Now, as board chair, we know he will guide our team as we continue to serve more families around the globe impacted by autism.”

With Allan’s 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.

View Press Release

The 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.

Here is a recap of the articles published by our team in 2025.  

The Importance of Fitness Training for Autistic Individuals
By: Nate Shanok, PhD, Research Coordinator 

Research 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.  

“Beyond getting a quality workout, students experience tremendous joy as they improve their skills and rally with peers or coaches,” observed Shanok. “It’s clear that fitness and sport-based programs cultivate valuable social bonding experiences.” 

Exploring Recreation Therapy for Individuals with Autism: Exercise to Improve Socialization, Self-confidence, and Independence
By Elizabeth Reisinger, CTRS, Recreation Services Manager 

Exercise 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 “stronger” and “happier.”  

Managing Anxiety: Tools and Strategies for Emotional Balance
By: Amanda Trovato, PsyD, Senior Manager of Therapeutic Services 

Up 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. 

Psychoeducation, exposure, cognitive restructuring, and relaxation techniques can all be utilized to help manage anxiety with the support of caregivers. 

Modernizing your cultural infrastructure through autism inclusion
By Erin Brooker Lozott, Ed.D., BCBA-D, CCC-SLP, Program Director; and Marlene Sotelo, Ed.D., BCBA-D, MT-BC, Executive Director 

With 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’t just a social responsibility; it’s a strategic investment that strengthens culture, widens the talent pool, and drives long-term organizational growth. 

Companies 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. 

Beyond Words: Overcoming Barriers to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for Autistic Individuals
By: 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 

Speech-language pathologists work to enhance communication and independence in autistic individuals through the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) AAC tools. 

However, 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’ communication competence. 

Autism Language and Symbols Preferences: Insights from a Cross-Cultural Survey
By Jose Martinez, PhD, BCBA-D, Behavior Analyst; Erin Brooker Lozott, Ed.D., BCBA-D, CCC-SLP; Marlene Sotelo, Ed.D., BCBA-D, MT-BC 

This study examined preferences for person-first language (PFL), identity-first language (IFL), symbols, and terminology. 

Autistic 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. 

The 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. 

This year’s theme, “Honor Our Legacy, Fuel Our Future,” celebrates the lasting legacy we have built since we opened The Els Center of Excellence^® campus 10 years ago while looking ahead to the future with the groundbreaking of our Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex.

Throughout the year, we witnessed incredible breakthroughs and celebrated meaningful milestones with the individuals and families we serve. While there were countless memorable moments, we’ve narrowed it down to Our Top 5 of 2025!

Inaugural Neon Nights Held to Celebrate a Decade of Excellence

On 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.

To 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’s top food trucks serving delicious delights.

This year’s Neon Nights benefited the construction of our Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex – which brings us to our second highlight!

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Groundbreaking of the Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex

Fulfilling 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.

This state-of-the-art facility will be the first ASPECTSS®-compliant sports and recreation complex in the U.S., using a research-based architectural design framework tailored for individuals with autism.

The complex will include:

• A purpose-built gymnasium designed to reduce sensory overload, offering year-round access to basketball, yoga, and fitness programs
• An 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
• A teaching kitchen and multipurpose dining area to support life skills development and community programs
• Sensory escape spaces, a splash pad, and therapeutic fitness rooms for safe, inclusive play for healthy living

Another 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.

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Ernie Els #GameON Autism® Aquatics Program Developed

This year, the Ernie Els #GameON Autism® 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.

With 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.

The curriculum focuses on:

• Building essential water safety awareness and swim skills
• Increasing confidence and independence in aquatic environments
• Supporting social engagement and communication through structured group lessons
• Using evidence-based strategies to track progress and outcomes

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CADI Through the Lifespan

Our Collaborative Autism Diagnosis and Intervention (CADI) program expanded to provide diagnostic services across the entire lifespan, from early childhood through adulthood.

This expansion was needed, especially for teens and adults, as there is now greater awareness, improved screening and diagnostic tools, and expanded definitions of autism.

By 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.

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Career Exploration & Training (CET)

Finally, 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.

This innovative initiative offers training and career discovery across multiple industries, including basic carpentry, hotel and hospitality, office and clerical essentials, retail, and food service.

Participants receive personalized coaching, résumé 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.

All 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.

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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.

From small moments to major milestones, your generosity this year pushed us closer to a world of endless opportunities for individuals with autism.

No parent ever wants to hear that their child has autism. When Ernie and Liezl Els’ son, Ben, received an autism diagnosis, their lives, like those of all families directly impacted by autism, changed forever. However, their journey to support Ben inspired the creation of a world-class autism campus, a place where individuals of all ages can access programs, services, therapies, and education all in one location.

A Family’s Leap of Faith

At the time of Ben’s diagnosis, World Golf Hall of Famer Ernie Els and his family were living in England. “We took a chance and put him into the same school as our older daughter, Samantha. He absolutely despised it,” Ernie Els recalls.

Determined to find a better solution, Liezl Els began researching and discovered a charter school for children with autism in Palm Beach County, Florida. The family took a leap of faith and moved across the pond. The decision changed everything. “Ben started smiling and making friends. Although the school gave him the support he needed, the building wasn’t up to ‘par.’ Liezl said to me, ‘We must build something proper for individuals with autism.’”

The Beginning of Els for Autism

Ernie Els then decided to go public with Ben’s diagnosis, making the announcement at the 2008 Honda Classic – an emotional moment that inspired family friend and entrepreneur Marvin Shanken. Shanken pulled Els aside and suggested they collaborate to raise money for autism research through a Pro-Am. “You get the pros, I’ll get the amateurs,” Shanken told Els.

That initial idea grew into something even greater. Together, Ernie & Liezl Els and Marvin Shanken established the Els for Autism Foundation®, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals on the autism spectrum reach their full potential. Through fundraising efforts, including the Els for Autism Pro-Am, they purchased a 26-acre plot of land in Jupiter, Florida, to build The Els Center of Excellence® – a world-class hub for autism services and education.

Building The Els Center of Excellence

Ground broke in 2014, and just 18 months later, the campus opened with the Rupert Education Wing – the new home of Ben and his friends’ charter school – and an administration building. During that time, the founders recruited Marlene Sotelo, EdD, BCBA-D, MT-BC, from the University of Miami- Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD) to help create comprehensive wraparound programs so individuals could receive all their therapies and services in one central location.

This innovative approach changed everything for families. “We were spending nearly two hours every day in the car taking our child from school to therapy. Now he just walks down the hallway on The Els Center of Excellence campus,” said one parent whose child attends the charter school and receives services from the Els for Autism team.

A Decade of Impact

This past August, The Els Center of Excellence celebrated its 10-year anniversary. The campus now includes the Shanken Education Wing, the Stoops Family Adult Services Building, the O’Donnell Family Pavilion, sensory arts gardens, tennis and basketball courts, two playgrounds, and a three-hole pitch-and-putt golf course.

Under the direction of Dr. Sotelo, who is now the Executive Director, Els for Autism provides autism programs and services for individuals starting at 12 months old through adulthood, focusing on three primary impact areas:

• Early Intervention & Education
• Recreation
• Adult Services

Expanding Recreation and Research-Based Design

To mark the campus’s 10-year anniversary, Els for Autism broke ground on a Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex. The complex will include the Stanley Black & Decker Gymnasium, an Aquatics Center, and the Thomas R. & Deborah K. Whitesell Splash Pad. It will also be the first sports and recreation facility in the U.S. to be ASPECTSS® compliant – a research-based architectural design framework for autism.

Including the aquatics center was especially important. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children with autism, and through the evidence-based Ernie Els #GameON Autism® Aquatics program, children will learn essential swim and water safety skills in a safe, supportive environment.

A Global Vision for Autism Support

Els for Autism also has organizations in the United Kingdom, Canada, and South Africa. Its evidence-based programs and services have reached families and professionals in 38 countries, creating a true global autism community.

Despite this global reach, Els emphasizes that Els for Autism remains a family-driven organization, and on any given day, you will see him and his wife greeting staff, clients, and their families. “I don’t know if one day I’ll be remembered as a golfer or as a dad who brought autism to the public,” he reflects. “I like the latter.”

A Legacy of Hope and Excellence

No matter where you call home, Els for Autism provides autism support services, programs, education, and resources for individuals of all ages, their caregivers, and professionals.

Explore our full list of evidence-based programs and services.As a nonprofit organization, Els for Autism relies on charitable financial contributions to continue providing programs and services to our clients and their families. Remarkably, 87¢ of every $1 directly benefits our programs and services, ensuring your donation has a profound impact. We invite you to explore our diverse range of giving options, tailored to match your philanthropic goals and preferences. Your generosity fuels our global mission to transform the lives of people with autism and their families through lifetime services and collaborative partnerships. Thank you for being a vital part of our community and helping us create a world of limitless possibilities.