Autism Acceptance Month
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month!
March marks the beginning of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month!
Throughout this month, we have the incredible opportunity to shine a light on the unique abilities, talents, and perspectives of individuals with developmental disabilities. It’s a time to celebrate their strengths, champion inclusivity, and raise awareness about the importance of creating supportive and accessible communities for all.
Join us as we embark on a journey of understanding, empathy, and advocacy. Let’s challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and foster environments where every person, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
Throughout Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we’ll be sharing stories, resources, and initiatives aimed at promoting acceptance, empowerment, and equal opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Together, let’s build a more inclusive world where everyone is valued, respected, and embraced for who they are.
Join us in celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month! Together, we can make a difference.
Happy National Mentoring Month
Guide, inspire, and make a difference in someone’s life. Become a mentor today! Happy National Mentoring Month to all the Mentors out there in our community!
We R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic
We are excited to share our inaugural We R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic, presented by HDS Companies on Friday, April 26th at @jacarandagolfclub. Swing into action to support our programs for teens and young adults with Autism.
Register now at www.werisegolfclassic.org/.
Highlights of 2023
The HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students demonstrated valuable life skills during their Community Based Instruction field trip to Panera. Students practiced ordering takeout which showcased their independence, while incorporating budgeting skills emphasizing responsible decision-making. Additionally, the experience provided an opportunity to enhance social skills through interactions in a real world setting, contributing to their overall development.
Happy National Nonprofit Day!
National Nonprofit Day, founded by Sherita J. Herling, commemorates August 17, 1894, when the Tariff Act became law and gave exemptions for charitable institutions and nonprofit organizations. Today, we celebrate National Nonprofit Day by recognizing the positive...
Post-Secondary Pathways for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder
The pathway between high school, postsecondary education, and employment can be quite daunting and challenging for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Fortunately, nowadays, students have options when meeting their graduation requirements during high...
HDS Foundation Highlights Cypress Bay B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Student
In today’s edition of the HDS Foundation's B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Student Spotlight, we are highlighting Sam, an upcoming 11th grader at Cypress Bay High School. During his time in quarantine, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Sam participated in online learning classes and...
B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Class Says Good-bye For the Summer
Yesterday was a day filled with lots of “good-byes” and “air hugs” as the Cypress Bay B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students met at Library Park for their final CBI trip of the school year. Students enjoyed a brief social gathering while wearing masks and following social distancing...
B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Virtual Class Comes to an End
Last Thursday, students from Cypress Bay B.R.I.D.G.E.S. program participated in their LAST online class of the 2020 school year. However, this ZOOM meeting wasn't like the others. It was a very special one where the facilitators presented a recap of the B.R.I.D.G.E.S....
Highlighting Students in the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Program
As we continue to share student stories and testimonials throughout the next few weeks, we hope everyone enjoys learning all about the fascinating young adults in the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S Social Personal Skills Program. We are very proud of our students and their efforts...
Guest Speaker Attends Cypress Bay B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Zoom Meeting
On Thursday, May 7th, the Cypress Bay B.R.I.D.G.E.S. class had a special guest speaker attend one of their Zoom meetings. Kate Gilson Miranda, a former Bay B.R.I.D.G.E.S. student, joined the Zoom meeting to share her experience transitioning from high school to...
DMF Block Party Recap
Each year at HDS Companies, we recognize April as National Autism Awareness Month by supporting the Autism Community throughout the State of Florida. This year during the month we supported several very worthy causes and initiatives by the Miami-Dade County Mayor and...