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A Capital Campaign for the RECREATION COMPLEX

Expanding recreation activities available at The Els Center of Excellence® campus.

Recreation Complex

Community-based Sensory-Friendly & Inclusion Summer Experiences

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Going out in the community may be difficult for some people on the spectrum due to their individual sensory needs. However, scheduling community outings in sensory-inclusive settings can enhance the experience an individual with ASD or another developmental disability has in the community. Things to consider when looking for a sensory-friendly community-based experience include but may not be limited to locations with reduced sound levels, limited to no flashing or strobe lights, minimal special effects, and spaces specifically designed for individuals with ASD to take a break. A few sensory-inclusive experiences to consider this summer include:

Sensory Saturdays
The Cox Science Center and Aquarium is open for special exploration hours the first Saturday of every month from 9 – 10 a.m., specifically designed for families affected by autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing or cognitive challenges, or other guests requiring assistance for disabilities.

Family Fun at Mounts Botanical Garden
From a giant outdoor fort and maze to towering moai statutes, a gorgeous butterfly garden, and the opportunity to feed the koi fish, MBG has much to offer youngsters – and the young at heart! Sensory backpacks are available at Mounts Botanical Garden to support children and families.

Sensory-Inclusive Performances | Broward Center for the Performing Arts
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts’ sensory-inclusive performances are intended to create a welcoming and supportive environment for children and adults on the autism spectrum and individuals with other sensitivity issues or developmental disabilities.

Tips for Transitioning Into Adulthood over the Summer

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For youth transitioning into adulthood, it’s an exciting time, but it can leave you with questions. Our Associate Director, Robin Jones, M.S., M.Ed, has tips for a successful transition into adulthood over the summer.

  • Register for Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)
    VR is a federal-state program that helps people who have disabilities understand the options available to find, get, or keep a better job. If employment is your goal, and you are not already registered with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), this is a great place to start. Els for Autism is a VR provider and has a suite of Employment Programs and Services.
  • Become a Self-Advocate
    Enrolling in a Self-Advocacy Training course prepare individuals on how to communicate their strengths, abilities, interest better, and needs when interviewing with potential employers or applying to trade schools, colleges, or universities. Our self advocacy training is available to transition aged youth, ages 14 – 21.
  • Get to know your available Social Services, Funding, and Resources
    Learning about the many social services, funding, and resources available to individuals with autism transitioning to adulthood will help you prepare for post-secondary life. To learn more visit the websites below.
    Medicaid Waiver: Agency for Persons with Disabilities
    Vocational Rehab Services: Vocational Rehabilitation
    SSI: Social Security Administration
    Transportation: Palm Tran Connection
    Additional Resources: Florida Atlantic University Center for Autism and Related Disorders (FAU CARD)

Mental Health Matters to Autism

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By Merrick Egber

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. From individual to group sessions, the Els for Autism Foundation® offers a suite of mental health services.

Start by asking yourself, “Am I feeling fine?” If the answer is ‘no,’ and you are affiliated with the autism community, then resources are available to you. As a follow-up to one of our latest news articles regarding the collaboration of Els for Autism and the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) to support individuals with autism and psychiatric diagnoses, we reached out to Cheryl Checkers, M.S., LMHC, the President of NAMI Palm Beach County, and Erin Brooker Lozott, BCBA-D, CCC-SLP, the Program Director at Els for Autism, about autism and mental health.

Why is Mental Health Awareness so important regarding treatments and therapies for the autism community?

Cheryl: “Children and adults with autism are likelier to experience a mental health condition than their neurotypical peers. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) 70 percent of autistic individuals are diagnosed with one mental health condition, and up to 40 percent are diagnosed with two or more mental health conditions. However, recent research suggests these numbers are even higher.

“A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that mental health conditions were already present in nearly 45 percent of preschool children with autism. In contrast, this study found that only about 14 percent of children without autism experience mental health conditions. In addition, several studies found that as individuals with autism grow older, the prevalence of mental health conditions increases.

“Despite these staggering statistics, there is a shortage of mental health professionals understand autism. In addition, the mental health and autism worlds can seem to be distinctly different systems of care, which often creates a barrier for individuals with autism to find the mental health support they need.”

Erin: “Due to 70 to 95 percent of children and adolescents with ASD having at least one co-occurring psychiatric disorder and 73 to 81 percent of adults with ASD meeting the criteria for at least one current co-occurring psychiatric disorder (Mosner et al., 2019), it is critical for providers working in the field of autism to have competencies in evidence-based practices for autism and mental health and mental disorders to make a change.”

As you both are mothers of daughters with autism, what could you tell me second-hand about your daughter’s experiences with mental health and autism?

Cheryl: “As a parent of a now adult daughter with autism and as a clinician who is an autism specialist, I continually witness the devastation untreated co-occurring mental health conditions cause. In many cases, these mental health challenges cause a greater impact on quality of life than autism challenges do and can lead to crises. This was the case for my daughter when she reached adolescence. Professionals continued to focus on her autism, and she received labels of ‘difficult,’ ‘defiant,’ and ‘manipulative’ rather than ‘overwhelmed,’ ‘depressed,’ and ‘anxious.'”

Erin: “From my daughter’s perspective, she is constantly trying to figure out why she must ‘feel the way she feels,’ ‘act the way she acts,’ and why she isn’t and can’t be like the ‘other girls.’ My daughter’s experiences with mental health have always seemed to take the front seat to her diagnosis of autism, with depression and anxiety causing her the greatest of struggles. In addition, she has experienced bullying and difficulty maintaining established friendships. My daughter has learned to look for the ‘yellow versus red flags’ to ensure she doesn’t misperceive levels of friendship or kindness. Finally, my daughter has had to experience going to multiple doctors and therapists continuously. During these appointments, people constantly discuss her areas of need versus her incredible strengths and talents. She now begs for the day she won’t have to see another doctor again. All this said, my daughter also understands the gifts her diagnoses bring and holds on to all the positives having a unique brain has to offer.”

What are some misconceptions about co-morbidities of mental health challenges and autism?

Cheryl: “There are several misconceptions about autism and co-occurring mental health challenges. Most are due to the lack of awareness and limited information on this topic. The most common, and perhaps most damaging, is the perception that any challenge a person with autism has is attributable to their autism. For this reason, the mental health of children and adults with autism is often neglected. This leads to untreated mental health conditions, which worsen and are harder to treat. In addition, as was the case with my daughter and many clients, it takes a mental health crisis to get the proper mental health support in place finally.”

Erin: “That medicine can fix the co-morbidities, one type of therapy alone will make the change needed for a life of happiness and success, and even with all the best doctors, therapists, and perfect pharmacological intervention, things will be fixed. Mental health and autism are about management; it is not about fixing anything. It is a lifelong journey that requires specialized care and a huge support system. Mental health and autism are about learning how to embrace the most challenging moments and celebrate the times of success, peace, and happiness. It is so difficult. The best analogy I can give is it is like having to work all day and night, and though you put all your effort and dedication into the practice, the difficulty level often (but not always) stays relatively the same.”

What are the resources in the community for NAMI and the Els for Autism Foundation for dual diagnoses of autism and mental health issues?

Cheryl: “I have strongly advocated for bridging the autism and mental health worlds for over 25 years. It brought me to my profession and continues to drive my professional and advocacy work. I lead the FAU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (FAU CARD) co-occurring autism and mental health skilled task force. NAMI and Els for Autism are members of this vital initiative to increase awareness and mental health support for individuals with autism. This task force is a collaboration between CARD, community and private clinicians, mental health providers, universities, educators, and agencies working together to increase the capacity of professionals who can support individuals with autism spectrum disorder and mental health needs and their families.

“NAMI of Palm Beach County does an excellent job of increasing awareness of co-occurring autism and mental health conditions through community collaborations, speaker series, conference presentations, publications, and more. These exciting collaborations are helping to bring the autism and mental health worlds together. However, continued vigilance is needed to assure appropriate mental health treatment and support options are available for individuals with autism.”

Erin: “In addition to Els for Autism, NAMI, and FAU CARD, here are some additional resources: Jennifer Smyth (LMHC), Southeast Florida Behavioral Health, 988 Lifeline (formally known as 211), Vocational Rehabilitation, Agency for Persons with Disabilities.”

About the Interviewees:

Cheryl Checkers, M.S., LMHC, is the President of NAMI, PBC (National Alliance on Mental Illness, Palm Beach County). She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and the Founder of Checkers Counseling and Consulting. She is also the Clinical Consultant for FAU-CARD for the dual diagnosis of autism and mental health disorders.

Dr. Erin Brooker Lozott, Ed.D., BCBA-D, CCC-SLP is the Els for Autism Foundation® Program Director. Dr. Lozott is a doctoral-level board-certified behavior analyst and licensed speech-language pathologist. She is appointed to a scientific advisory committee and a clinical excellence committee for international autism organizations. She has co-authored several publications on autism spectrum disorder topics and has presented and consulted extensively nationally and internationally.

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What Autism Means for Mothers

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A Post by Merrick Egber

With May 14 being Mother’s Day, we wanted to share the stories of three mothers from different backgrounds who have worked for the Els for Autism Foundation® to give people with autism better lives.

Our first mother is Liezl Els, the Co-Founder of the Els for Autism Foundation. She is the visionary of the one-stop-shop model for any autism treatments and therapies and the mother of Ben Els. Liezl is hard at work validating our Global Mission and Vision statement ‘Where Possibilities are Endless.’ In addition, her daughter, Samantha ‘Sam’ Els, runs a sibling support group called Sam’s Sibs Stick Together Room that meets every third Tuesday monthly.

Our second mom, Pam Minelli, founded the Autism Project of Palm Beach County. Without her presence, the wealth of autism services in Palm Beach County would be more impoverished. In addition, she serves on the Board of Directors at the Els for Autism Foundation.

Our third mother is Shelly Hedge, who has been our point person for accounting for eight years. She was hired around the time that I was and now has the position of controller. Her son, Collin Hedge, has participated in many of our programs and services. Her daughters also have supported him and other individuals with autism through their work with autism communities.

What were your first impressions upon hearing the son’s diagnosis of autism?

Liezl: “My reaction when Ben was officially diagnosed was not very dramatic as it was a mere formality for us at that stage. We already knew/suspected he was on the spectrum. But, for most parents, it probably comes as a bit of a relief as it gives you direction and support going forward.”

Pam: “It took us a while to diagnose Andrew. All the experts told us he didn’t have autism because he had excellent eye contact. We were finally relieved to get the diagnosis, so he could receive more services and enroll in preschool.”

Shelly: “Honestly, I was somewhat devastated to think he would not experience the same joys, love in relationships, and long-term independence. It was a flood of emotions.”

How did you adapt to your son’s new challenges?

Liezl: “We were lucky in the sense that Ben was an easy baby and toddler. Our lives didn’t have a        drastic change other than the interventions. Our changes came gradually over the years as he slowly fell further and further behind his peers in his development.”

Pam: “I speak for most parents in that your entire world revolves around caring for and advocating for your child. Those first few years of tests, assessments, ABA, speech, OT, and physical therapy were all-consuming. So early on, my husband and I established Wednesdays as our date night, which made a massive difference over the years.”

Shelly: “Collin was diagnosed at 13 months, so we immediately sought resources and programs to help him with his educational and therapeutic programs. We entered him in Early Intervention Program at St. Mary’s and subsequently found ABA, SLT, & OT for him as supplements. It was pretty overwhelming but gave us focus on his future goals.”

What was most rewarding about having a son with autism?

Liezl: “Ben’s laugh and constant wish to make others laugh was definitely the biggest blessing. He made all of us appreciate the smallest things in life. Things that before we took for granted, like crawling and walking, every milestone hit became a celebration.”

Pam: “Probably the unconditional love we receive from Andrew every day. I still get to snuggle and smother my 25-year-old son with kisses every day. We didn’t have to go through the terrible teens with Andrew. He hugs us every time he sees us!”

Shelley: “The community of individuals who have come into our lives, including therapists, teachers, parents, neighbors, co-workers, and even those in the community who have a unique understanding of or interest in autism and what the needs associated with it are.”

What advice would you give new mothers about having a child with autism spectrum disorder?

Liezl: “I think the most important thing to remember is that, just like no two individuals on the spectrum are the same, no two families will cope with it the same way. Forgive yourself for your mistakes and make peace with them. Love your child unconditionally and cope with life in the best way for YOUR family. You must find the rhythm for your family and make it work. We are all just trying our best to keep things together.”

 Pam: “I always advise Mom – get your child on the Medicaid Waiver waiting list with the Agency for   Persons with Disabilities!”

Shelly: “Consider the diagnosis a gift in understanding that not everyone is the same, allowing you to alter your goals for the future. Also, it is not the end of the world, as there are so many considerations to consider. You will find support along the way, and it will be manageable.”

What would you say if you came face-to-face with yourself in the beginning stages of motherhood?

Liezl: “If I saw myself, I would say, ‘RELAX,’ you will be OK.”

Pam: “If I came face-to-face with myself, don’t worry much about Andrew. You’ll all be OK.”

Shelly: “There is no time limit on the successes or growth of Collin. At the time, we thought if he did not speak before age 5, he would be non-verbal. However, each person has individual strengths, and even if he does not follow the ‘typical’ growth, he will still have a happy, joyful life that may not match the standards. Also, the people you will encounter on this journey will surprise you!”

What resources did you use to support you as a mom and your child?

Liezl: “At the start, just after being diagnosed, we used Autism Speaks. Over the years, we would try whatever worked best with Ben as we were living in the UK, and the resources were far more limited than in the US. We eventually moved to the US to start his school life at The Learning Center. Ernie had announced at one of his tournaments that Ben was on the spectrum, and from that point on, we had so many e-mails from people wanting to help. It was both heartwarming and overwhelming. A lot of excellent information came out of those letters, and if it weren’t invasive, we would try it. You quickly learn that you must ensure these suggested methods are evidence-based, or you will drive yourself and your child insane.”

Pam: “The Learning Center and The Learning Academy charter schools were a great source of support for many years for Andrew and our family. Andrew was supported in our home through Positive Behavior Support’s ABA services, and FAU-CARD was a great resource over the years. Our friends and family were also a loving support system!”

Shelly: “When he was little, our entire focus was to improve his learning skills. We enrolled him in over 30 hours of services for all modalities.”

What resources do/did you use that are provided by Els for Autism?

Liezl: “We, as a family, use just about everything we can from Els for Autism. Ben is a happy member of The Learning Academy and has also started with a few hours per week in the Adult Day Training program. Our favorite thing is the rec programs with dance being his all-time favorite.”

Pam: “Andrew attends Els for Autism’s Adult Day Training program Monday through Friday. We are all very excited about the opening of the new Stoops Family Foundation Adult Services building, where Andrew will have more opportunities to work on his communication, social and vocational skills. We are so grateful to Ernie, Liezl, Samantha, and Ben Els for everything they have done for our family and many more families in Palm Beach County and worldwide.”

Shelly: “So many, including the Adult Day Training program, speech language therapy, and all the rec programs (tennis, fitness, golf, yoga, kickball, music, and art). He has also participated in vocational rehab. We are so grateful and fortunate to have these programs available to him as an adult! We are so looking forward to the continued growth of the Adult Services with the new building and programs!”

Thank you Liezl, Pam, and Shelly for sharing your stories. Show your appreciation to the mothers who cared for you, showed you support, and guided you when you needed to find a way through.

This month’s podcast has a special guest, Gyasi Burks-Abbott, who wrote “My Mother’s Apprentice: An Autistic’s Rites of Passage,” where he will talk about being raised by a single mother. His journey as a child with autism is one of the many reasons he received the 2022 Autism Spectrum Award from Els for Autism. My Co-Host, Dr. Nate Shanok, will also discuss a study that measures the impact of mothers on children with autism.

Els for Autism® & NAMI Collaborate to Support Individuals with Autism & Psychiatric Diagnoses

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West Palm Beach, Florida (April 13th, 2023) – April is World Autism Month. Recently, we partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Palm Beach County for the Lecture Series: An Overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) & Mental Health.

Our very own Dr. Erin Brooker Lozott, Ed.D, BCBA-D, CCC-SLP, explored her expertise as the Director of Programs for the Els for Autism Foundation® while providing an in-depth review of the autism spectrum disorder condition, associated characteristics, and common co-occurring disorders.

Lozott said relationships with organizational partners, like NAMI, are crucial. “NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.”

With 85% percent of autistic children also having some form of co-occurring Psychiatric Diagnosis and 73-81% of adults with ASD meeting the criteria for at least one current co-occurring psychiatric disorder, individuals with autism, their caregivers, professionals in the field, and autism organizations must combine forces with NAMI, both in research and in practice for actual change to occur. “NAMI’s new initiative to begin offering education and resources on autism has the potential to be transformational as access to sound support and services for people with autism and mental health has been previously limited. Therefore, knowing I would be a part of combining the fields and resources available to people affected by autism and mental health was significant to me both professionally and personally.”

During the lecture series, attendees also heard from FAU CARD’s Cheryl Checkers, President of NAMI PBC, who spoke on the importance of females receiving a proper autism diagnosis. “Cheryl Checkers is a well-respected and seasoned licensed mental health counselor and NAMI board member. Cheryl has been a trailblazer in the field of mental health and autism. Her presentation on females on the spectrum was educational, innovative, and inspiring.

“I hope the information shared in both my and Cheryl’s presentations will spread beyond the attendees as this knowledge is necessary to maximize the outcomes of people with autism and mental illness.”

Progress in connecting mental health with autism has been made; however, there is still room for improvement. “We have university programs integrating information on autism into the training and licensure requirements of students working to become mental health professionals. And now global organizations, such as NAMI and Els for Autism Foundation, are collaborating and sharing information with families ensuring access to research-based information and resources.”

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so it is important to continue working together to generate the best outcomes for our communities!

30 Quotes from 30 People with Autism – The Sequel!

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Sue Abramowski – Human Services Professional, Advisory Board Member

“The world needs all kinds of minds, we’re not all meant to be cookie cutters.”

Jessica-Jane Applegate – Professional Swimmer

“Ignore what anyone has to say. If you believe that you can, you can do it”

Rachel Barcellona – Pageant Professional, Autism Spectrum Award Winner 2017

“I show people that I can do anything despite my disability. Be yourself no matter what, and don’t let others define who you are.”

Andrew Blitman – Tutor and Mentor – Firewalls Centers, Advisory Board Member

“Asperger Syndrome
– Autism –
As I may have it,
Is a developmental disorder
That affects the way
People grow up
Psychologically
And neurologically.
We are, in most situations,
Completely intact intellectually.”

Everett Borislow – Morning Receptionist, DJ – Els for Autism Foundation

“I would say that my executive functioning is both a blessing and a curse. It can help or hurt in a way.”

Dani Bowman – Head of DaniMation Studios – an Animation Company

“English is my 2nd language. Autism is my first”

Gyasi Burks-Abbott – Writer, Public Speaker, Organizationalist, 2022 Autism Spectrum Award Winner, Advisory Board Member

“In ASD success is a spectrum. You don’t need to be an inventor, author to be a success story.”

Tracey Cohen –Marathon Runner

“Despite societal norms, every individual, on and off the autism spectrum is unique. These differences should be celebrated, not feared or ridiculed. And despite these uniqueness’s, we are all really much more similar than we are different.”

Joshua ‘Deersey’ Deer – Assistant Equipment Manager at Lone Star Brahmas/NA3HL Texas Brahmas, 2015 Els for Autism Spectrum Award Winner

“As a golf instructor, I wanted to teach kids with no disabilities as well as kids on the autism spectrum to help them understand the different areas of the game of golf, so that the kids could become good golfers and I can help them with their talents. And for the kids on the autism spectrum, I work hard to give them the passion for the game of golf just like me”

Mike DiMauro – UberEats Driver, Advisory Board Member

“A person with ASD should be in a community that is loved, kind and with the encouragement to succeed.”

Merrick Egber – Communications Specialist – Els for Autism Foundation, Chair of the Advisory Board

“I was born with this, an integral part of my personality, but I will say that whenever you are down, I possibly will feel down with you, and whenever I feel up, I will feel up with you.”

Carly Fulgham – Technology Project Lead – National Bank, President of Autism Society of America

“When we’re desperate for oxygen, we all look the same.”

Dr. Temple Grandin – Professor of Animal Husbandry, Colorado State University.

“The world needs all kinds of minds”

Nick Hine – Royal Navy Second Sea Lord

“I am extremely focused, I love solving problems and finding the most efficient way to do things. I am excellent at making rational decisions based on data. I don’t ‘trust my gut’ – I need evidence before I make any decision. I have always been very honest and frank in my style of communication and have a relentless drive to find outcomes. Being in a nuclear submarine with no windows and very few distractions was the perfect place for me. I could just focus on my job.”

Anthony Ianni – Center – Michigan State Spartans, Motivational Speaker

“Remember we are all different in many ways, but in the end we are all the same because we are created equally and we ARE all people.”

Jim Hogan – Chief Innovation Evangelist & Accessibility Leader – Google, 2020 Autism Spectrum Award Winner

“When I say “I feel like I belong at Google,” that doesn’t mean that every day is my best day ever. There are things that happen here that can be very hard on people. Performance reviews can be humiliating, just because two people may not see the world the same way. The best advice I give to managers is to lead with their hearts – if there’s a problem, don’t cast people out, try to understand them. If you lead others with your heart, their outcomes will probably be supercharged.”

Adam Jones – Barn Attendant at Madison Fields, Autism Spectrum Award Winner 2018, Advisory Board Member

“It takes a whole community to help someone with ASD. It takes everyone as a whole.”

Dr. Kerry Magro – National Speaker, 2022 Autism Spectrum Award Winner, Advisory Board Member

“ASD doesn’t come with an instruction guide. It sometimes comes with a family that never gives up.”

Billy Mayfair – Professional Golfer

“I know it’s helped my game, and it explains why sometimes I am that athlete that can really focus better than other people and other golfers did. Of course, I used to think that was normal, but I know now that this helped me in that way.”

Gloria Mendoza – SAP S/4HANA Technical Quality Manager, 2016 Els for Autism Spectrum Award Winner

“Probably the best part about working {At the SAP Autism At Work Program} is that I can use the skills which I have studied whilst being among people that understand who I am and how I’m different from everybody else,”

Haley Moss – Attorney, Autism Spectrum Award Winner 2019

“I want to see a world where people with disabilities achieving things is a norm rather than an exception. It isn’t a surprise when you see a person with autism practicing law or doing something amazing in the world.”

Wentworth Miller – Actor ‘Prison Break’, ‘The Flash’

“This isn’t something I’d change … immediately being autistic is central to who I am. To everything I’ve achieved/articulated.”

Paul Morris – Assistant, New York Medical College of Human Resources – Advisory Board Member

“When I was a little boy I didn’t know I was different. I did not know how to handle friends. I was non-verbal till age 5. I had to be taught how to speak, how to listen, how to think. The years were hard. Sometimes I just didn’t understand, but look at me now!”

Elon Musk – Entrepreneur and Business Magnate

“I found it rewarding to spend all night programing computers, just by myself. Most people don’t enjoy typing strange symbols into a computer by themselves all night. They think that’s not fun. But I really liked it.”

Gary Numan – Solo Artist ‘Cars’

“You know, they talk about Asperger’s people as being obsessive, as if that’s a bad thing. I don’t think it’s a bad thing, it gives you skills, which in certain professions are incredibly useful, and I don’t know if I would be here without them, I don’t know if I’d have the drive.”

Isabelle Piwnicki – Retail Associate – Girl AGain, Operations Assistant – Sephora, 2021 Autism Spectrum Award Winner

“I was diagnosed with autism when I was two and a half. I have been dancing since I was 8 because dancing allows me to not only live but also to be myself with the freedom to be me.”

Alex Plank – CEO – Wrong Planet, LLC

“Social Skills training..like stories…don’t work….The best way to learn social skills is through trial and error.”

 

Katie Santoro – Medicare Clinical Note Reader – Cardinal Health, Organizationalist, Advisory Board Member

“The world should know that just because one is verbal and has a job, they still have challenges. Please recognize and respect our challenges.”

Ron Sandison – Professor of Theology at Destiny School of Ministry. Advisory Board Member.

“My dad at first told me, don’t tell people about your disabilities. Let them see your gifts and focus on those. But it was actually the disability in me sharing that where people were able to connect. Every person has some weakness or some limitation, but our limitations are a good thing because they make us an expert in other areas or areas that we’re stronger in. As we use our strengths, we compensate for our weaknesses.”

Dr. Stephen Shore – Clinical Assistant Professor of Special Education – Adelphi University, Board of Directors at Autism Speaks, Advisory Board Member

“Autism is really more of a difference to be worked with rather than a monolithic enemy that needs to be slain or destroyed.”

Dr. Vernon Smith – Experimental Economist, Professor of Economics – Chapman University

“Perhaps even more importantly, I don’t have any trouble thinking outside the box. I don’t feel any social pressure to do things the way other people are doing them, professionally, and so I have been more open to different ways of looking at a lot of the problems in economics.”

Armani Williams – Philanthropist, Motivational Speaker, NASCAR Driver  

“I was diagnosed with autism when I was 2 years old, but I didn’t know until I was older. It was around the time I was heading into middle school that my parents told me. It immediately made me think back on all of the experiences that I had as a young child. That’s when it started to make sense for me. Once I could put all those memories together, that’s when I realized just what it meant to be on the autism spectrum.”

James A. Williams – Philanthropist, Pianist

“If you want to be a musician, a desire or passion needs to be relevant or a self-interest. Find what your likes and tastes are regards to the music that appeals to you; find enjoyment and strive to learn, push yourself, and reward your progress. Communicate with instructors about what you want from learning and/or find ways to learn what works for your needs.”

Connor B. Sturgis – Philanthropist, Customer Services – Publix, Advisory Board Member

“People with ASD have jobs and can buy a house, it just takes us a little longer to get there but we can do it.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Troon partners with Els for Autism® for World Autism Month

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Scottsdale, Ariz. (April 3, 2023) – April is World Autism Month and Troon® has partnered with Els for Autism to raise funds and autism awareness worldwide. Golfers playing Troon-affiliated courses in April are encouraged to donate the dollar amount of their score to Els for Autism in support of this special initiative, which will help transform the lives of people with autism and those who care for them. For example, if a golfer shoots an 80 during their round, they are encouraged to donate $80 to Els for Autism.

For every score donated, the donor will be entered into a drawing to win a two-night stay at The Breakers Palm Beach in Florida and participate in the Els for Autism Grand Finale. The Grand Finale is a two-day extravaganza of golf and entertainment hosted by Ernie and Liezl Els set for October 30 – November 1, 2023 at The Breakers Palm Beach. Two winners, plus their choice of one guest each, will be awarded on May 1, 2023 and will receive:

  • Entry for one golfing guest and one non-golfing guest (airfare/transportation not included)
  • Attendance at the Welcome Party on October 30
  • Attendance at the Awards Ceremony and Gala Celebration on October 31
  • Entry to Grand Finale golf tournament for golfing guest only during your stay
  • 2 nights complimentary accommodation at The Breakers Palm Beach from October 30 – November 1, 2023
  • Gift Bag for each golfing guest

To donate and be entered into the drawing, please click here or copy and paste the following link: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E331264&id=212.

Approximately 1 in 36 children have been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which is reported to occur in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. ASD is about four times more common in boys than among girls.

Els for Autism Foundation® was established in 2009 by Liezl Els, Ernie Els, and Marvin R. Shanken. The Els’ son, Ben, is impacted by autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which affects 1 in 44 children in the U.S. The Foundation offers innovative, evidence-based programs for families and individuals across the lifespan in six focus areas: Education, Research, Global Support, Recreation Services, Adult Services and Therapy Services.  The Els for Autism Foundation serves families around the world and offers in-person programs and services at The Els Center of Excellence® in Jupiter, Florida. To learn more about Els for Autism®, please visit www.elsforautism.org.

For more information on the Els for Autism Grand Finale, contact Paige Thomas, Director of Events, Paige.Thomas@elsforautism.org.

About Troon
Headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Troon is the world’s largest golf and golf-related hospitality management company providing services at 750-plus locations, including 740-plus 18-hole equivalent golf courses around the globe. In addition to golf, Troon specializes in homeowner association management, private residence clubs, estate management and associated hospitality venues. Troon’s award-winning food and beverage division operates and manages 600-plus food and beverage operations located at golf resorts, private clubs, daily fee golf courses and recreational facilities. With properties located in 45-plus states and 30-plus countries, Troon’s family of brands includes Troon Golf, Troon Privé, Troon International, Indigo Sports, CADDIEMASTER, ClubUp, Cliff Drysdale Tennis, Peter Burwash International, True Club Solutions, RealFood Hospitality, Strategy and Design, Casa Verde Golf and ICON Management. For additional news and information, visit www.Troon.com.

Media Contact:
Rob Myers
Troon
480.477.0506
rmyers@troon.com

Ernie Els recipient of the 2023 Francis Ouimet Award for Lifetime Contributions to Golf

Posted on by fearghal

On April 3rd, 2023, Ernie Els received the 2023 Francis Ouimet Award for Lifetime Contributions to Golf at Encore Boston Harbor. The Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund awards millions of dollars in need-based college scholarships each year to deserving young men and women who have worked at Massachusetts golf courses.

“We are thrilled to have Ernie Els as the 2023 Banquet Honoree,” said Ouimet Fund Executive Director Colin McGuire. “Not only is Ernie Els one of the most prolific winners of his generation, he and his wife Liezl have transcended the sport with groundbreaking charitable endeavors and fundraising by founding in 2009 “The Els for Autism Foundation.”

Francis Ouimet is one of the most honored players in history. He shook up the golfing world by winning the 1913 US Open, one of the greatest upsets in the history of the sport. He won the U.S. Amateur in 1914 and 1931. He also played on the first eight Walker Cup Teams and was Captain of the next four. Revered as a golfing goodwill ambassador, he became the first American elected Captain of the R&A in 1951. He has been named to every golf Hall of Fame, and has a room named after him in the USGA Museum. The U.S. Senior Open Trophy is also named after him, as are several others around the country. The Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund began a Francis Ouimet Award for Lifelong Contributions to Golf.

Congratulations Ernie Els!

Arts and Leisure: The Artist At Work, Lyrically Speaking

Posted on by fearghal

Music is one of the greatest things in life. While a book, movie, TV Show, or Video Game can take 30 minutes to hundreds of hours, a piece of music can usually have it all in 2 – 5 minutes. I would place any of the songs by The Beatles in comparison or superior to so many of those properties that exist to entertain or as art.

One corner stone that I would like to talk about as theming for the RE-creating RECREATION Conference hosted on March 23-24, 2023 is in Mental Health, and how recreational activities can improve on that aspect. I had encountered the first signs of clinical depression at the age of 15, which dovetailed with wanting to develop a hobby too, but I had no expressive outlets. I had to seek something that I was influenced by and could pick it up very simply. One of my first loves was the work of Bob Dylan because he was the first one where I listened to the lyrics with intent. Another love was The Beatles, because of the integration of great lyrics and great melodies. I wanted to be like them both, especially The Beatles, and during that year, I came up with my first written work that described what I was going through – ‘Jailhouse Blues’. It was a discovery that what I thought was the simplest form of expression – poetry and song lyrics – would be very powerful later.

My parents learned about my skillfulness early on when I shared with them two writings at a Mexican restaurant – a moment I will never forget. I am not exactly skilled that much at anything, but I was able to keep it a secret, and to share with them on my own terms that I was writing things also as a therapeutic outlet. While my father declared me to be a poet, I’ve always considered myself more of a lyricist. There is little money to be made in poetry, but if I can write a hit song, then royalties can accumulate.

Throughout the years, while I haven’t been able to connect with anyone in the music publishing business, I have been able to do short tours with my father and his friend, at three different original music festivals, including the big one at Key Largo. My father would play the guitar, his friend the bass, and I would play the tambourine, because I don’t have confidence in my actual voice although I would sometimes sing at these festivals. I have also self-published a great number of books with my lyrics and poetry. I also co-wrote a song that was played at the end of the Golf Challenge Series, our biggest fundraising event of the year, which was the Grand Finale in 2016, hosted by Els for Autism®.

Here are a few tips and tricks that have to do with my experience as a writer.

1. There are many avenues to express yourself. Certain ideas, or thoughts and opinions may fit more in a comic book, or maybe a novel, or a novella. For example, if you are able to draw better than being a writer, maybe express yourself in a comic book or comic strip.

  1. Brevity is the soul of wit, but verbosity is the soul of exposition. While there are moments where one should be brief, do not let details slide from crafting the perfect picture.
  2. From my perspective, one doesn’t have to play an instrument to come up with songs, one can come up with lyrics and try to sing it in a melody and voila, there’s a song!
  3. I am terrible at handwriting, but I am very proficient at typing on word processors. In this time and day, you don’t need to stick to pen or pencil and paper to get your ideas out.

    I hope that you can enjoy writing in the same way that I do. It is a very powerful tool. I cannot write novels, novellas, or screenplays, but I can write poetry and lyrics. Maybe you, the reader, can do it too.

For a look at my materials and books, please visit www.MerrickEgber.com

 

 

Els for Autism Foundation® appoints new Chairman of the Board: Michael Alessandri, Ph.D.

Posted on by fearghal

Jupiter, Florida – March 08, 2023 – Els for Autism Foundation today announced the appointment of visionary autism expert, Dr. Michael Alessandri, Ph.D. as Chairman of the Board. Alessandri, who joined the Els for Autism board in 2019, succeeds Marvin R. Shanken, Co-Founder, Els for Autism Foundation and Publisher and Founder of M.Shanken Communications.

“We are so proud to have available to us, a leading expert in autism with vast academic credentials and experience for our entire program.” Honorary Chair, Marvin Shanken Dr. Michael Alessandri is the Executive Director of the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD). Dr. Alessandri has been a professor at UM since 1996 and has worked with individuals with autism and their families since 1981 in various capacities.

“I am honored to assume the role of Chairman of the Board of the Els for Autism Foundation, a one-of-a-kind autism center of excellence that is transforming lives through its innovation in research and educational and therapeutic programming for clients across the lifespan and the globe. I’m especially humbled that the baton has been passed to me by a man I deeply admire, Marvin Shanken, who has led the Foundation with passion and determination. Together, with our first-rate board, leadership team, and staff, the next phase for the Els for Autism Foundation will be one of breathtaking and impactful growth and expansion.” states Dr. Alessandri. Dr. Alessandri has presented, consulted and published internationally on developing appropriate and effective educational programs for students with autism. In addition, he has received numerous research and service grants and several notable awards within the field including being named Visionary Leader of the Year Award by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, David Lawrence Jr. Champion for Children by The Children’s Trust, and Wendy F. Miller Autism Professional of the Year by the Autism Society of America.

“We are grateful to Marvin for all that he has done for the Foundation from inception and look forward to what’s to come under the direction of Dr. Michael Alessandri.” Ernie and Liezl Els, co-founders of Els for Autism.