Your generosity creates life-changing outcomes. Every dollar you give directly fuels programs and services that open new doors for individuals with autism and their families. Together, we’re building a world of limitless possibilities. Your impact makes it possible.
Spectrum of Support
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A Letter from Executive Director, Dr. Marlene Sotelo
Dear Friends,
As I look back on this remarkable year at Els for Autism, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for your unwavering support and belief in our mission. Each milestone we’ve reached is a testament to the generosity and compassion of people like you—people who truly care about creating brighter futures for individuals with autism and their families.
Breaking Ground on the Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex
This August, we celebrated a momentous occasion together: the groundbreaking of our new Recreation Complex, designed specifically for the autism community. Imagine a place where every child and adult feels safe, included, and empowered—a gymnasium with therapeutic and teaching spaces, a pool, and a splash pad, all thoughtfully created to foster connection, healthy living, and water safety. As Ernie Els so beautifully said at the Ceremony, “The rec center is going to be another arm. Something for them to explore. Something to help them in their everyday life.”
But this is more than a building—it’s a lifeline. Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children with autism, and thanks to your support, our Ernie Els #GameON Autism® Aquatics program will offer specialized, lifesaving water safety and swim instruction. Together, we are saving lives.
Thanks to the outstanding advocacy of Senator Gayle Harrell and Representative John Snyder, Els for Autism received a $2.5 million appropriation this year from the State of Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities, bringing the total state funding for the Recreation Complex to $4.4 million over the past three years. These funds go directly toward making the Recreation Complex a reality, moving us closer to our $20 million fundraising goal and ensuring this dream becomes a reality for the families we serve.
Developing the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Aquatics Program
This year, our team developed a specialized curriculum to teach individuals with autism to swim and be safe in the water. Built on evidence based teaching practices including visual supports, structured routines, and a progression-based model, this program will build confidence and essential skills at every level.
The need for this program could not be greater. A recent study revealed that Palm Beach County, home to The Els Center of Excellence®, has the highest rate of drowning incidents involving autistic children in the state.
The Ernie Els #GameON Autism Aquatics program is our answer. Launching nationwide in 2026, it will empower swim schools, instructors, and community partners around the world to join us in offering lifesaving water safety education and swim instruction. Together, we can prevent tragedies and give families peace of mind.
Peg, a mother of one of our adult clients, shared how grateful she is for the development of this program, knowing it will help keep individuals like her son safe in the water. Hear from Peg in the video below.
Expanding Access to Lifespan Diagnostic Services
This year, we expanded our Collaborative Autism Diagnosis and Intervention (CADI) program to serve individuals across the lifespan. Our expert team provides comprehensive evaluations and actionable recommendations, guiding families from childhood through adulthood. Like a trusted caddie, our CADI team walks beside families, offering not just answers, but hope for the journey ahead.
Launching Career Exploration & Training (CET)
For autistic adults, meaningful employment can be the key to independence, dignity, and community connection. Our new CET program provides vocational training in fields such as hospitality, food service, retail, carpentry, and office essentials. One mother shared, “My daughter has grown so much since starting the program. Her social skills have improved, she is more communicative, and most importantly, she is proud of the work she does.” This is the true measure of success; empowered individuals stepping into their future with confidence.
Your Impact, Our Future
Each of these accomplishments reflects the heart of our mission: creating limitless possibilities for individuals with autism. Yet, there is still so much more to do.
As we approach the end of the year, I invite you to help us build a brighter future for individuals with autism by making a gift to Els for Autism. Your support fuels the programs, services, and opportunities that change lives every single day.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in the families we serve and for standing with us in this important work. Together, we are creating a world filled with opportunity and hope.
With gratitude,
Marlene Sotelo, EdD, BCBA-D, MT-BC
Executive Director
Els for Autism
Important Tax Information
As a result of the One Big Beautiful Bill that was signed into law on July 4, 2025, sweeping changes will be made to charitable giving tax benefits starting in 2026. These changes include:
- A reduction in itemized charitable deductions for high-income donors (from 37% to 35%)
- A new 0.5% floor on charitable deductions, meaning only gifts exceeding 0.5% of your adjusted gross income will be deductible
- A reinstated above-the-line deduction for non-itemizers, up to $2,000 for married couples, but excluding donor-advised funds
If you’re considering a gift, 2025 is the optimal time to act. By giving before December 31, you can take full advantage of the current tax benefits and ensure your contribution has the greatest possible impact. Whether you’re planning a one-time donation or contributing through a donor-advised fund, we encourage you to consult your financial advisor to make your gift before the new rules take effect.
Questions about donating to Els for Autism?
Contact the Development Team at development@elsforautism.org or 561-320-9532 with any questions.
