We are pleased to introduce the 2019 Autism Spectrum Award winner, Haley Moss! The Els for Autism Spectrum Award honors an individual with autism spectrum disorder who has shined a positive light on autism through his/her character, positive attitude, and contribution. “Haley has not only defied the odds by accomplishing her creative and educational goals […]

By Mariann Coleman, Marketing and Development Manager When we give tours of The Els Center of Excellence™ campus we often face puzzlement from tour participants when explaining the different entities on the campus. To provide some clarity between the physical location, the Foundation, and the two schools here is a reference. The Els Center of […]

“If you want to touch the past, touch a rock.  If you want to touch the present, touch a flower.  If you want to touch the future, touch a life.” – Author Unknown We are extremely grateful to our many volunteers who help provide added opportunities for local individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.  […]

Early this year, Ernie Els was asked by a friend to participate in a fundraising challenge—the ‘108 Hole Hike’. Due to Ernie’s busy golf schedule, he was unable to participate but sent Jen Hong, Director of Special Initiatives at Els for Autism Foundation, and former professional golfer, in his stead. The ‘108 Hole Hike’ originally […]

Why an Advisory Board? At Els for Autism, we believe our total commitment to the lives of individuals and families impacted by autism spectrum disorder (ASD) makes us stand apart from other organizations and Foundations. This commitment is demonstrated throughout the various facets of the Foundation, including the programs and therapy services we offer, best […]

Amy Lourie is an artist and Coach at The First Tee of the Palm Beaches. The First Tee has established Nine Core Values that represent some of the many inherently positive values connected with the game of golf.  Amy encourages parents to reinforce these behaviors by talking about them, what they mean and what these […]

Three years ago, Riley Banker of Jupiter, Florida, ventured into the Els Center of Excellence, hoping it was somewhere he could make an impact. Riley’s initial attraction to the Els for Autism Foundation was its Founder, World of Golf Hall of Famer and four-time Major Champion, Ernie Els. An avid golfer himself, Riley was most […]

Since 2015, Els for Autism Foundation has honored an individual with autism spectrum disorder with the Els for Autism Spectrum Award. Recipients of the Els for Autism Spectrum Award are individuals with autism who have shined a positive light on autism through his/her character, positive attitude, and contribution. Nominations for the 2019 award are open […]

By Merrick Egber It was an exciting day when I turned 30. For many people, the idea of spending what should be a celebratory event at the tragic site of Clear Lake, Iowa, in the Surf Ballroom where Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper played their last show before the “Day the Music […]

In many countries, there is a distinct lack of access to information and to therapy providers specializing in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). World of Golf Hall of Famer and four-time Major Champion, Ernie Els and his wife, Liezl, experienced this first hand.  Their son, Ben, was diagnosed with ASD in 2005.  At the time, he […]