Dining with Purpose: Students Build Life Skills at Outback
HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students enjoyed a Community-Based Instruction (CBI) visit to Outback! Students practiced real-world skills by previewing the menu and planning their meals within a set budget.
At the restaurant, students ordered independently, used polite manners, and enjoyed time together complete with a special birthday celebration for one of the students. One of the highlights of the visit was hearing from the restaurant manager, who shared how impressed he was with the students and the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. program and offered his continued support.
Today’s CBI focused on Budgeting, Independence, Development, and Social Skills, and the students did an incredible job representing themselves. We are so proud of them!
Budgeting in Action: Students Take on Online Ordering
Our students practiced real-world skills with a Publix online ordering adventure! In class, they completed a scavenger hunt to navigate the website and used the “order ahead” feature to pick their lunch, all while staying under a $15 budget. Students entered their customizations and personal information, then headed to Publix to pick up their orders. They independently checked out and paid and later enjoyed a picnic together in our garden. Through this experience, students strengthened their independence, budgeting, and social skills. We’re so proud of their hard work and growth!
Dressing for Success: B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Prepare for the Workplace
As part of a new year initiative, HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students took an important step toward workplace readiness by shopping for professional attire to wear during worksite visits.
Students visited Ross Dress for Less, where they practiced real-world skills by selecting dress pants, speaking with a dressing room attendant, trying items on, and choosing the best fit. Each student also received a polo shirt and helped customize it by pressing on vinyl adding a personal touch to their professional look. The experience came full circle when students proudly wore their complete professional outfits to a brand-new worksite at Old Navy, an opportunity they all thoroughly enjoyed. We’re so proud of their confidence, growth, and professionalism!
Courage, Community, and Confidence on the Ice
HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students hit the ice at Pines Ice Arena for a day of skating, socializing, and building confidence!
Each student received ice skates and a skating aid, giving them the chance to try a new leisure skill in a safe, supportive environment. Many students stepped outside their comfort zones, and we were so proud to see them give it a try—even when they felt unsure at first.
As the day went on, students gained confidence, cheered each other on, and even took turns pushing peers on the skating aids. This winter activity helped boost independence, strengthen social skills, and celebrate personal growth—all while having a blast on the ice!
Preparing for Everyday Success Through Community-Based Learning
The HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students kicked off the year with a Community-Based Instruction (CBI) trip to Pembroke Crossings in Pembroke Pines! They visited stores like Burlington, DICK’S Sporting Goods, Five Below and Barnes and Noble, where they were excited to see favorite characters in print, discover novelty items, and share their interests with peers and teachers.
During lunch, students independently reviewed menus, placed their orders, and paid for their meals practicing real-world skills like budgeting, time management, and self-advocacy.
This week’s CBI focused on developing key skills:
• Budgeting & Money Management
• Independent Functioning
• Social Interaction & Communication
Experiences like this help students build confidence, strengthen independence, and prepare for success both in school and in everyday life.
Exploring STEM Futures at Broward College
The HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students had an exciting opportunity to spend the day at Broward College exploring the ACCESS (Accelerating College Completion by Engaging Students in STEM) Project, a Title III Grant initiative. This project supports both the academic and...
HDS Mentors Making a Difference
A huge thank you to our amazing HDS Companies team members, Bridget Wong, Ashley Walker, and Delisay Baldaji for inspiring our Cypress Bay B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students during their Career Series! These incredible women shared their journeys from college to launching...
Business-Savvy and Tech-Ready
We’re so proud of Noam, a sophomore in the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. program, for reaching an exciting achievement! This year, he earned certifications in Photoshop Premiere Pro and Business Management & Entrepreneurship. Noam set a goal and followed through with focus...
Building Skills & Earning Confidence
We’re incredibly proud of Alexandra, an HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. senior who’s already making a difference! Along with her studies, she’s gaining valuable experience and earning money as a freelance babysitter. Her dedication and hard work are truly inspiring, and we’re...
Learning Life Skills Through Gardening
Our Broward HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students participated in The Home Depot Garden Challenge, and they did an amazing job! This year, the project was scaled down from an outdoor garden to individual succulent planters. Working in teams of 2-3, they had a $50 budget to...
Making a Difference, One Student at a Time
We are proud to share the stories of these amazing teens & young adults during Autism Acceptance Month! Having a disability is not a limitation, it's part of the strength, perspective, and passion that fuels their journey. They’re pursuing their dreams, doing what...
Celebrating Jesus’ Path to Employment
Huge congratulations to Jesus on landing a new job! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, and we couldn't be happier for you. Wishing you all the success in this new chapter—go shine bright!
A Day of Celebration, Unity, and Acceptance
Special thanks to the amazing HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. teachers at our Miami-Dade High School for hosting such a fantastic event in celebration of Autism Acceptance Month! Our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students and their classmates enjoyed a day filled with sweet treats donated by...
A Day of Friendship, Inclusion, and Inspiration
Kate Gilson, HDS Foundation Educator & Program Facilitator, and Board Member, recently took part in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk and what an unforgettable day it was! Following the walk, Kate was invited to an exclusive afternoon reception hosted by...
On the Road to Independence
Huge congratulations to Zacharia on getting his learner’s permit! This is such an exciting milestone, and we’re so proud of you for taking this big step toward independence. Wishing you safe and happy driving adventures ahead!