Els for Autism Adult Day Training Program Success Story
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.
Order Here (Under March Specials)
Hop into spring with every bite at the Big Easy™ Cafe by Ernie Els this Easter, and add a dash of sweetness to your celebrations with our special cupcake box.
All of our gourmet cupcakes are organic and homemade. Purchase now by visiting our Toast account and then clicking “March Specials.”
Orders must be placed by Wednesday, March 20. You will select a pickup window on Thursday, March 28 when placing your order.
Treat boxes of half a dozen cupcakes cost $24.00 each and will all be packed with love by the adults in our Adult Day Training program.
Here is the list of the items with ingredients:
Carrot cake ingredients: Flour, Sugar, Carrots, Pineapple, Orange rind, Olive oil, Eggs, Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Cloves, Pecan nuts, Vanilla extract, Baking Powder, Bicarbonate of Soda, Salt
Frosting: Butter, Cream cheese, Powdered sugar, Vanilla extract
Big Easy™ Cafe by Ernie Els Valentines Day Cookie Platter
Order Here
Spread the love with every bite at The Big Easy™ Cafe by Ernie Els this Valentine’s Day, and add a dash of sweetness to your celebrations with our special Treat Box!
All of our gourmet delights are organic and homemade. Purchase now by visiting our Toast account and then click “February Specials.”
Orders must be placed by Monday, February 5th. When placing your order, you will select a pickup window anytime between Friday, February 9th and Wednesday, February 14th.
Treat Boxes cost $24.95 each and will all be packed with love by the adults in our Adult Day Training Program.
Here is the list of the items with ingredients.
Outrageous Brownies
Butter, Semisweet chocolate chips, Unsweetened chocolate, Eggs, Espresso, Vanilla Extract, Sugar, Flour, Baking Powder, Salt
Chocolate Peanut Butter Truffles
Creamy Peanut Butter, Butter, Powdered Sugar, Graham Cracker Crumbs, Semi Sweet Chocolate
Mini Lambingtons
Flour, Butter, Sugar, Eggs, Milk, Baking Powder, Cocoa, Desiccated Coconut
Mini Chocolate Cupcakes
Flour, Eggs, Olive Oil, Sugar, Cocoa, Espresso, Water, Baking Soda, Salt, Powdered Sugar, Milk, Vanilla Extract
Mini Red Velvet Cupcakes
Flour, Corn Starch, Cocoa Powder, Salt, Baking Soda, Butter, Sugar, Vegetable oil, Eggs, Vanilla Extract, White Vinegar, Milk, Cream Cheese, Powdered Sugar & Red Food Coloring
International Volunteer DayDecember 5 is International Volunteer Day. We are thankful for all our volunteers, who serve in many ways. This past year, 130 individuals volunteered a total of 2,272 hours to support Els for Autism®. Our recent podcast interviewed Bobby and Christy Banker who volunteer in the Ernie Els #GameON Autism® Golf Program.
Another way individuals serve is in our microbusiness Sea of Possibilities, which has adults in the Adult Day Training Program (ADT) learn employment and vocational skills through product creation with assistance from staff in our Adult Services Department and our volunteers who serve as artist assistants.
Leann Doll is a regular in the Sea of Possibilities workshop volunteering her time to help the Sea of Possibilities crew create a variety of ocean-themed art projects using materials from the beach, such as shells, driftwood, coral, sand, and sea glass. Items are sold online, in several gift shops, and at local events, including the Gardens GreenMarket.
Leann enjoys volunteering with Sea of Possibilities because she gets to see first-hand the creativity and pride of the clients making the projects. She says it truly “fills my soul,” helping them put the finishing touches on their art pieces. One of her favorite products made in the Sea of Possibilities workshop is the large jewelry dishes because each one is unique and very functional. Leann says our campus is a very special place with everyone very encouraging and welcoming.
We have still positions open for volunteers, and as we grow, our positions and the roles and responsibilities tied to them will grow and diversify.
Visit our website to learn more, as to how to get involved: https://www.elsforautism.org/get-involved/volunteer/
