Autism Acceptance Month!
At HDS Foundation, we celebrate the strengths and talents of individuals with Autism and are committed to fostering opportunities that support independence and meaningful growth.
Together, we can build a more inclusive and supportive future for all.
Celebrating our Students’ Accomplishments!
We’re kicking off the month with something special! HDS Foundation will be spotlighting our amazing B.R.I.D.G.E.S. & THRIVE students and the awesome accomplishments they’ve achieved this year!
From big milestones to personal victories, these students shine bright and inspire us every day.
Stay tuned — we can’t wait to celebrate them all month long!
A Recipe for Success: Learning at Flanigan’s
Students then brought their papers with them and used them to order. One student’s order was not available, and he had to make a last minute switch and he did so with ease!
Students effectively communicated their wants to the waiter, using great manners as well. Students demonstrated excellent table manners, using their napkins, silverware, and coasters appropriately. Students enjoyed sitting together, socializing, and having good food!
This was a great trip to practice independence, decision making, budgeting, and social skills!
B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Navigate Success at Dolphin Mall
Another great week of hands‑on learning and confidence‑building!
A Special Thank You Video!
We are proud to share a special thank you video from the College of Education and Human Services at the University of North Florida (UNF) highlighting the HDS Foundation’s continued support of the UNF THRIVE program.
Budgeting, Ordering, and Building Confidence at Chick-fil-A
Our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students recently enjoyed a meaningful and interactive learning experience at Chik Fil A! Prior to the trip, they practiced budgeting and calculating meal totals to prepare for placing their own orders. During the visit, students confidently...
Shopping for a Cause: B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Support the Harvest Drive
Giving back while learning important life skills, that’s what our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students experienced during their recent trip to Publix to support their local Harvest Drive! Students worked in groups to find five items each to complete a Harvest Drive Box, using...
B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Give Back to the Community
The HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students recently volunteered with Hope at Miami Lakes United Methodist Church to help prepare gift bags for the upcoming Miami Lakes Pumpkin Patch event! Students worked together to fill each bag with care, practicing teamwork, responsibility,...
Smiles, Music, and Memories: A Homecoming to Remember
This weekend, our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students had an unforgettable night at Homecoming! Students dressed up, danced, and enjoyed an evening full of fun, laughter, and memories. Events like these give our students a chance to practice social skills, build confidence,...
A Night of Connection, Learning, and Support for HDS Families
Thank you to everyone who joined us for HDS Foundation: Parent Connect, Learn & Support Night! A special shoutout to all the parents of our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students who attended and to Nathalie Stanish, M.S., Manager of The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation &...
Connecting Classroom Learning to Real-Life Skills
The HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students kicked off their Community Based Instruction Trips with a fun and educational day at the mall! After working hard at their job sites all week, students enjoyed a leisure day that put their budgeting and independent living skills into...
Empowering Independence: Real-World Budgeting Lessons for HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students
HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students took a trip to Publix to put their budgeting and communication skills into action! Each student worked with an $18 budget to purchase a drink, meal, and dessert. Some headed to the deli for subs, while others explored the hot food section...
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
This October, HDS Foundation honors those who have bravely fought breast cancer, remembers the loved ones we have lost, and stands with the survivors whose strength inspires us all. We recognize the importance of awareness, early detection, and support for...
October marks the 80th Anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month
HDS Foundation proudly celebrates the many skills, talents, and contributions of people with disabilities in the American workforce. We honor this milestone by continuing to support inclusion, opportunity, and empowerment in our communities.
HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Practice Real-World Budgeting
Today, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students went on their first Community-Based Instruction (CBI) field trip to Walmart! Their challenge was to work in teams of three and stay within a $25 budget while purchasing office supplies for their teachers. At the checkout, some...