A True Role Model: Carter Bonas Inspires Our B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students

A True Role Model: Carter Bonas Inspires Our B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students

Special thanks to Carter Bonas for visiting our Broward HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students and sharing his powerful story! At just 14 years old, Carter has already made an incredible impact. Diagnosed with Autism at an early age and non-verbal until age 5, he spoke about the challenges he faced growing up and how he discovered his passion for golf and helping others.
Driven by his own experiences with skin sensitivities, Carter launched his own line of golf clothing and went on to author the inspiring book “Swinging Beyond the Spectrum.” Today, he runs Carter’s Spectrum Golf, a nonprofit organization that provides free golf lessons, equipment, and apparel to veterans and children in need who want to learn the sport.
Our students were engaged and asked thoughtful questions as Carter shared his journey of resilience, entrepreneurship, and giving back. Thank you, Carter, for being a true role model and showing what’s possible when you follow your passion!
A Striking End to an Amazing School Year!

A Striking End to an Amazing School Year!

What a way to wrap up the school year! Last week, our Miami-Dade HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students celebrated in style at @birdbowlmiami filled with strikes, slices of pizza, and arcade fun! The room was full of laughter, smiles, and unforgettable memories. This celebration wasn’t just about fun it was also a chance for our students to grow and shine. They practiced Growth & Empowerment, strengthened Independent Functioning, and showcased amazing Social Skills all while having the time of their lives.

A Delicious Finale to an Incredible School Year!

A Delicious Finale to an Incredible School Year!

Our Broward HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students wrapped up the school year with a delicious celebration at Japan Inn. From an exciting hibachi show to a tasty lunch shared with friends, it was the perfect way to honor a year full of growth, learning, and success.
Cheers to friendship, achievements, and all the memories made along the way!
A Night Full of Sparkle, Smiles, and Celebration!

A Night Full of Sparkle, Smiles, and Celebration!

 

This past weekend, our Broward HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students enjoyed a magical night at prom! The students had an amazing time celebrating the end of the school year, bonding with friends, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. We’re so proud of how far they’ve come and were thrilled to see them shine on such a special night!

 

Class of 2025 You Did It!

Class of 2025 You Did It!

 

The countdown is over, and the cap and gown moment has arrived. As you step into the next chapter whether it’s college, a new job, or discovering your path know that this is only the beginning of your amazing journey. We’re so proud of your hard work, resilience, and all that you’ve accomplished. The future is yours to shape. Go chase your dreams and make your mark on the world!

 

Empowering Our Students with Financial Literacy

Empowering Our Students with Financial Literacy

Special thanks to Karena Bland, Manager, and Daniel Guerrero, Senior Banker at Bank of America, for visiting our Miami-Dade HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Program! They shared valuable insights on banking topics including loans, credit cards, and how to manage checking and...

Happy Teacher/Mentor Appreciation Week! 

Happy Teacher/Mentor Appreciation Week! 

We’re sending a huge THANK YOU to our incredible HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. and HDS College teachers and mentors this week, who go above and beyond every single day. Their dedication, patience, and passion help shape meaningful futures for our students both in and out of the...

Broward Sheriff’s Office Family Autism Day

Broward Sheriff’s Office Family Autism Day

​ The HDS Foundation was proud to be part of the Broward Sheriff's Office Family Autism Day held today at Cypress Bay High School. We had the pleasure of connecting with families in our community and sharing valuable resources and programs designed to empower...

More Than a Meal: Lessons for Life

More Than a Meal: Lessons for Life

Our Broward HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students recently had the chance to enjoy several Community-Based Instruction (CBI) lunch outings, each one offering valuable real-world learning and social experiences! They visited three local favorites: Outback, Offerdahl's...

Exploring STEM Futures at Broward College

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

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

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

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

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...