Preparing for Independence Through Hands-On Learning
The students had a great experience during the Community-Based Instruction trip as part of the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. program. They visited several retail stores, including TJ Maxx, Ross Dress for Less, and Five Below, where they worked in pairs to complete assigned activities. Each pair selected thoughtful holiday gifts for a family member or friend while staying within a set budget. Students explored clearance and sale sections to find the best values and make informed purchasing decisions.
After shopping, students enjoyed lunch at Chick-fil-A. They took time to look over the menu and decide what meal best met their needs and budget. Students placed their own orders, handled their payments independently, and checked that they received the correct items, all while interacting respectfully and confidently with employees.
Overall, the trip provided hands-on learning opportunities in budgeting, decision-making, and communication, while supporting independence and practical life skills in a real-world environment.
Learning Through Service: HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Support Jamaica Relief Drive
We are so proud of our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students for making a meaningful impact! In response to recent events, students participated in the Jamaica Relief Drive at their school to support those affected by Hurricane Melissa.
The students were split into groups and given a list of items to donate. They worked together to locate products independently, navigate the store, and find the correct aisles where items were located. After gathering all items, they went to self-checkout, where they scanned, bagged, and paid for their purchases.
This hands-on experience not only reinforced important independence skills but also highlighted the value of community service and giving back.
HDS Foundation has been awarded $10,000 by the Autism Services Grants Council (ASGC)
🎉 Exciting News! 🎉
We are thrilled to share that HDS Foundation has been awarded $10,000 by the Autism Services Grants Council (ASGC) for our Bridging the Gap: Empowering Students with Autism program!
The ASGC is committed to supporting programs that improve the quality of life for individuals with Autism across Florida. This year, they received 113 applications requesting nearly $1 million, and with $158,000 available, they selected 18 outstanding organizations, including HDS Foundation, to receive funding!
This grant will help us continue providing impactful programs that empower students with Autism to build independence, develop life skills, and successfully transition into post-secondary education and employment.
A huge thank you to ASGC and to everyone supporting Florida’s Support Autism Programs specialty license plate! The more we spread the word, the more services we can fund statewide!
Show your support for autism awareness with a Florida autism license plate that benefits organizations like ours in communities around Florida. Join the movement and help us reach more families in need. Get yours now: https://autismlicenseplate.com
Together, we’re making a difference!
Creating with Purpose: Students Make Their Own Candles
Last week, our students enjoyed a fun, hands-on experience when Scentsability , a nonprofit that creates artisan scented candles and provides meaningful workplace opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), visited the school to guide them in making their own candles.
Students got creative using their favorite colors of sand, carefully placed the wicks, and decorated their candles with gems and seashells. Once the wax was poured and cooled, they were excited to see and enjoy their finished creations.
The activity was a great way for students to practice independence, decision-making, and problem-solving skills, while also boosting creativity. They were thrilled to take their candles home to share with their families!
Celebrating 17 Years of Making a Difference
Our guiding motto, “Rising by Lifting Others,” is more than words, it’s the heartbeat of everything we do. Through innovative programs, community partnerships, and unwavering commitment, we’ve created opportunities for mentoring, achievement, and independent living. These milestones reflect the power of collaboration and compassion.
Our Journey of Achievements
- Mentoring for Success: Thousands of ASD youth have found guidance and encouragement through our mentorship initiatives, building confidence and life skills.
- Educational Empowerment: From scholarships to specialized programs, we’ve opened doors to learning and growth.
- Community Integration: By fostering inclusive environments, we’ve helped young adults thrive in workplaces, schools, and social settings.
- Living Independently: Our programs have supported transitions into adulthood, promoting independence and self-sufficiency.
The Impact
Every story of progress reminds us why we started. Families share how their loved ones have achieved goals once thought impossible. Communities celebrate the contributions of individuals who are now thriving. Together, we’ve built a legacy of hope and opportunity.
Looking Ahead
As we commemorate 17 years, we reaffirm our commitment to innovation and advocacy. The journey continues, and with your support, we will keep lifting others, because when one rises, we all rise.
Join us in celebrating this milestone and shaping the future. Together, we make a difference every day.
Happy Birthday, Temple Grandin!
Happy Birthday, Temple Grandin! Your brilliance and compassion inspire us all. Here’s to another year of making a difference! Thank you for leading the way for those of us in the neurodivergent community. You are truly an inspiration.
Best Buddies Organization
“Best Buddies are the family we choose for ourselves.” - Best Buddies Organization
National Homeownership Month
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HDS Foundation Hosts the Inaugural We R.I.S.E for Autism Golf Classic, Presented by HDS Companies in Support of the Autism Community
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – HDS Foundation (HDSF) successfully hosted its inaugural We R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic at Jacaranda Golf Club in Plantation, renowned as South Florida’s premier semi-private golf facility. The tournament was Presented by HDS Companies,...
City of Plantation Proclamation at HDS Foundation – We R.I.S.E. for Autism Day!
We would like to thank the @cityofplantation Florida Council Member and @plantationlouis for supporting the Autism Community and presenting us with the City of Plantation Proclamation designating April 26, 2024 as HDS Foundation - We R.I.S.E. for Autism Day!
Broward County Proclamation for HDS Foundation R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic Day!
We would like to thank the @browardcountylife and Mayor Nan Rich for supporting the Autism Community and presenting us with the Broward County Proclamation designating April 26, 2024 as HDS Foundation R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic Day!
We R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic was a great success!
The @hdsfoundation We R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic, presented by the HDS Companies was a great success! Our mission is to help teens and young adults with Autism bridge the gap from high school to their post-secondary journey. Special thanks to our amazing...
Autism Acceptance Day!
Today, we’re lighting it up blue for Autism Acceptance Day! Let’s celebrate the unique strengths and talents of individuals on the spectrum. Together, let’s promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for all.
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...