Over two years ago, Robert’s (name changed to protect identity) high school chapter ended at The Learning Academy (TLA) housed in the Shanken Education Wing on The Els Center of Excellence® campus. The daunting chapter of the rest of his life loomed large for Robert, as it does for many individuals with autism after high school graduation. While some individuals with autism can pursue further education, others have different paths.

In October of last year, Robert started the Els for Autism Adult Day Training (ADT) program housed inside the Stoops Family Adult Services Building. The Stoops Family Adult Services Building offers a range of specialized vocational labs and rooms, a sensory lounge, a hospitality and life skills suite, and dedicated therapy rooms.

At first, he was hesitant to participate and often required prompting to complete activities. Through the use of evidence-based practices, Robert has displayed more confidence and independence when engaging in activities in the classroom, the vocational labs, the Sea of Possibilities workshop, as well as attending community-based outings throughout the week. All aspects of the program can enhance the lives of adults with autism in a meaningful way, but it is in Sea of Possibilities where Robert truly shines.

Robert enjoys creating beautiful art pieces and is learning to work independently and develop other skills. He listens and watches intently to learn how to create each piece of art. Once he begins his work, he follows visual step-by-step instructions independently. When it comes to painting or using a paint brush to paint glue on for a project, he no longer uses the task analysis because he has mastered the skill of using the correct amount of paint or glue. Robert is always happy in the Sea of Possibilities workshop and works with a smile on his face, showing how much he is enjoying what he is creating.

Robert’s mom says, “Being nonverbal on the autism spectrum meant not really being able to convey his inner thoughts or feelings. As a mother, I often wondered what was going on inside his head. While I may never hear him say ‘I’m happy Mum,’ he has found his voice creatively, and it says, ‘My heart is smiling.’”

We are so proud of the accomplishments Robert has made in less than a year and can’t wait to see him continue to share his voice through Sea of Possibilities.

Last summer, Dhivaan interned with our Development Team. In his first few hours with the team, he attended the weekly Development Meetly. He sat and listened to the team brainstorm ideas for renaming the programs and services newsletter. He spoke up and said, matter-of-factly, “Why don’t you just call it ‘The AWEtism Report?’” The team looked at him, baffled, and exclaimed, “Why didn’t we think of that?!”

Although Dhivaan’s time as an intern was short, his family’s deep connection with Els for Autism dates back to 2010 when they lived in South Africa. “When we first learned about Els for Autism, it provided a golden opportunity for my brother to receive the proper education he needed.” This decision led to a challenging transition for Dhivaan as it meant leaving behind close friends. “But eventually I realized the importance of why we moved, and I accepted Florida as my home.”

Both Dhivaan and his brother, Ryan (Named Changed to Protect Identity), have autism. However, since autism is a spectrum, the brothers naturally are impacted differently. Dhivaan attended G-Star School of the Arts, going on to receive a bachelor’s degree in communication from Florida Atlantic University this past December. The degree was conferred cum laude. Ryan is non-verbal and instead attended The Learning Academy (TLA) housed in the Shanken Education Wing on The Els Center of Excellence® campus. “It can be hard to understand exactly what he wants, and it can get frustrating at times. Yet, Ryan is a very gentle and cool guy, which is why we often refer to him as ‘The Legend.’”

Ryan graduated from TLA in 2022 and now participates in the Adult Day Training (ADT) program that is housed inside the Stoops Family Adult Services Building. “The ADT program seems to be doing wonders for my brother. He is becoming more independent and is generally happier.”

In addition, with the opening of the Big Easy™ Cafe by Ernie Els inside the Stoops Family Adult Services Building, Dhivaan’s mom, Vasi, who is a very talented baker and chef joined the staff sharing her gluten-free and other culinary creations with patrons. “Nothing gives my mum more pleasure than sharing a lovingly prepared meal with friends and family. I am so glad she is sharing her skills at the cafe. Her cooking is so great, it might even make Gordon Ramsey take notes.”

Certainly, Dhivaan gained valuable insights that will contribute to his career path; however, his internship provided more than just professional growth. “Before becoming an intern at Els for Autism, I never fully appreciated how much care and hard work is put into the well-being and education of individuals with autism. The people at Els for Autism are all very caring and put in a lot of effort to make sure individuals with autism are educated and become fully functional citizens while also spreading awareness and acceptance of autism across the world.”

At the end of his internship, Communication Specialist and Advisory Board Chair Merrick Egber invited Dhivaan to join the Advisory Board. As a board member, he continues to provide insight and guidance to our team to help more families, like his own, reach limitless possibilities.