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Building to Empower Potential

Help us pave the way for the next generation. Els for Autism® is building a state-of-the-art educational space for adults with autism spectrum disorder.

Help Pave the Way

The Stoops Family Foundation Adult Services building, on The Els Center of Excellence® campus, is targeted for completion in 2023.  It will be a dedicated space for existing adult programs that are in high demand for individuals with autism and other related disabilities ages 18+. 

Please consider a contribution to this endeavor which is much more than a single, physical location. Through telehealth, conferences, shared programs, multi-language webinars, and peer-reviewed scientific journals, the Foundation has a much broader national and global reach. 

Adult Services Focus

Els for Autism Foundation® services provide lifespan instruction to help adults successfully transition to all aspects of life by providing programs in Employment and Community Programs, Independent Living, and Recreation & Leisure.

Naming Opportunities

Make a lasting impression with your gift to sponsor a room inside the building. Opportunities are available for gifts of $25k-$250k.

Call for In Kind Donations

There are many spaces in the new building that will require In Kind donations including a full-service café to provide adults with autism training and education in the areas of food service and hospitality. Learn more about how you can partner with the Foundation to outfit the space.

Inside the Building

Take a look inside the facility and learn the ways in which The Stoops Family Foundation Adult Services building will impact the future of adults with autism.

Download The Stoops Family Foundation Building Overview
1

Adult Day Training (ADT) Program

The ADT program builds on each participant’s individualized strengths supporting the development and practice of social skills, independent living skills, safety skills, and engagement within integrated activities in the community so that they can achieve greater independence and live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

For the latest updates about the Adult Day Training Program, please complete this form.

2

Work Experience Program

This 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.

3

Life Skills

The Daily Living Skills Group is an online group skills class to support and reinforce Independent Living Skills.

4

Mental Health Support

Individuals come together to share stories and experiences about their lives and discuss common issues such as depressed mood, anxiety, and compulsive thoughts to improve one’s overall quality of life and increase community participation.

5

Social and Recreation

The Foundation offers several social groups for adults with autism, including The Spoken Wheel Society, a social group for adults with autism led by an adult with autism, and the Adult Connection Club, an online group providing opportunities for individuals to interact with peers in a safe and supportive environment using video conferencing technology while practicing communication and social skills.

With the goal to promote social interaction and a healthy lifestyle, adult Recreation Programs are offered in golf, tennis, yoga, theater, music, chorus, and art.

Make a Lasting Impact

Are you ready to contribute? Contact Els for Autism with your inquiry for naming opportunities or in-kind donations.

Learn More

Testimonials

“The Adult Services building will be a place where adults can explore different careers, make friends, and engage with the community.”

Liezl Els

Co-Founder, Els for Autism

“Shaun loves participating in the Els Day Program. He loves the staff there and enjoys learning about music, practicing drums, and yoga, which helps him focus a bit more. He enjoys having a routine and going to Els, he knows everyone there, so he feels at home.”

Mom

Parent of Adult Day Training
Program Participant

“We have been beyond blessed in so many ways by the programs through the Els for Autism Foundation. Jack’s favorite part of this program was being with his peers.  Overall, the Adult Day program gave our family structure, joy, laughter, peace, hope & the feeling that we ALL mattered.”

Mom

Parent of Adult Day Training
Program Participant

The Building

The Stoops Family Foundation Adult Services building is planned for
completion in the summer of 2023.