Anonymous donor’s $58,000 contribution completes fundraising goal
Jupiter, 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® campus, is a powerful testament to that mission.
For 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 “Connor & Friends Care” campaign. “I’m trying to raise $100,000 to help young adults get jobs out in the community, like they helped me get a job at Publix,” he said.
Thanks 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. “I wanted him to have a great Christmas, so I was inspired to give,” the donor shared.
Funds raised through the Connor & Friends Care campaign will support Adult Programs and Services at Els for Autism®, including Employment Services. Each day at The Els Center of Excellence campus, “Connor’s friends” are building real-world job skills in vocational labs designed to prepare them for meaningful employment in the community.
Members 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.
Media Inquiries:
Rachel Soler
Public Relations, Els for Autism
Rachel.Soler@ElsforAutism.org
812.550.4353
About Els for Autism Foundation®
Established 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.
