We are YOUR partner in the recruitment and onsite training of qualified and talented individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. Click for Our Employment Programs Brochure
Work Experience Program
Els for Autism® Work Experience program is for adults with autism spectrum disorder and other related disabilities ages 18+ who have completed high school. The program is designed for those interested in career exploration or who have a goal of paid employment. During the program, participants will engage in hands-on learning and develop skills relating to employment.
Session Information
- January–March 2024 at the Big Easy Cafe | Download the Flyer
- February – April 2024 at the Marriott Beach Resort and Spa | Download the Flyer
- February – April 2024 at the Hilton Garden Inn Palm Beach Gardens | Download the Flyer
- March – May 2024 at the City of Greenacres | Download the Flyer
View the Eligibility Requirements here
View the Application & Enrollment Process here
Interested in becoming an employer partner? Learn more here.
Work Experience Program Partners:
Contact: Loden Coleman, Assistant Manager of Employment Programs
Email: Loden.Coleman@elsforautism.org
Phone: 561-598-6200, ext. 2049
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Vendor Services
Employment Services provided to VR Participants are designed to assist in securing & maintaining integrated, competitive employment. This includes services provided both before and & after job placement. Services can include developing employability skills, assisting with job development, providing job leads, assisting with the interview process, and Job Coaching.
Self-Advocacy Training
Self-Advocacy Training is a service designed to prepare individuals on how to better communicate their strengths, abilities, interest, and needs when interviewing with potential employers or applying to trade schools, colleges, or universities. Students who participate in this service learn how to represent themselves and make decisions that affect their lives. Throughout the training, students learn skills that increase confidence and self-esteem while helping them develop a sense of independence and self-empowerment.
Employment Enhancement Program (EEP)
Once VR resources have been exhausted, the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) can help fund supported employment services for individuals on the APD Waiting List. The EEP can help fund services for our clients to help them find and maintain competitive employment and participate in meaningful internships that have a high likelihood of resulting in competitive employment.
Individuals meeting the criteria in any Florida county may be considered for participation in the EEP. Els for Autism staff will work with APD to assist young adults who are leaving school, and others who are currently on the APD Waiting List, to secure competitive employment.
For each person who participates as a job seeker in the EEP, APD will allocate funds to provide the following services: Supported Employment coaching to secure a good job match; Supported Employment follow-along services to help retain the job; assistance with transportation needed for work and securing paid internships as pathways to competitive employment.
For more information on VR and EEP:
Contact: Howard Thomas, Employment Programs Specialist
Email: Howard.Thomas@elsforautism.org
Phone: 561-598-6200, ext. 2059
Financial Need Assistance
The Foundation offers programs and services to the entire community, and services are NOT limited to individuals enrolled at The Learning Academy. Additionally, some individuals may qualify for a scholarship. Complete the Financial Need Assistance Application here.
