October is National Bullying Prevention Month
October is National Bullying Prevention Month. Today, October 18th is Unity Day. The HDS Companies come together and wear orange to raise awareness of how bullying can be prevented, through sharing kindness, promoting acceptance, and encouraging inclusion. Here is some of our team and HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students!
National Disability Employment Awareness Month

October 5, 2023, October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month! The HDS Foundation recognizes the importance of ensuring all people have equal opportunity to contribute their skills and talents.
HDS Celebrates American Business Women’s Day
At HDS Foundation, we celebrate American Business Women’s Day and pay tribute to the exceptional accomplishments of the incredible women in our workforce. Today, we take a moment to appreciate their indelible contributions that have molded industries and enhanced our nation’s economy and society. We extend our respect to the women who are business owners, recognizing their entrepreneurial devotion, their role in job creation, and their efforts in empowering communities. Together, let’s unite in pursuing a more inclusive and equitable future for everyone, celebrating the achievements of all the remarkable women at HDS Foundation and beyond.
Birthday Wishes to a True Icon, Dr. Temple Grandin!
Join us in sending heartfelt birthday wishes to a true icon, Dr. Temple Grandin! Happy Birthday to the woman who revolutionized our understanding of Autism, enlightened us about animal behavior and captured our hearts with her warmth and spirit. Her legacy continues to shine brightly.
🌟 HDS Foundation Celebrates Non-Profit Day! 🌟
This year, on Non-Profit Day, we’re excited to highlight the impactful work being done by the team at the HDS Foundation. Our mission is to support teens and young adults on the Autism Spectrum as they embark on their journey through high school and beyond.
Our programs, B.R.I.D.G.E.S., Social Activities, and College Mentors, are designed to equip students with essential life skills. These skills empower them through their transition into adulthood.
🔗 B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Program: Bridging the gap between high school and post-secondary, this program focuses on key life skills that help pave the way for independence and self-sufficiency.
🎉 Social Activities: Through various engaging social activities, we create a nurturing environment that promotes social interactions, friendships and boosts self-esteem.
🎓 College Mentors: Navigating the world of higher education can be challenging, especially for those with differing abilities. Our College Mentors program offers invaluable guidance, ensuring a smoother transition into college life and helping our students to become successful adults.
We accomplish our mission through our donors’ generosity, the unwavering support of Cristina Miranda Gilson, and the HDS Companies. Their contributions directly impact the lives of these exceptional individuals, enabling them to flourish and thrive.
Today, as we celebrate Non-Profit Day, let’s take a moment to appreciate every single person who plays a role in making a difference in the lives of our students. Together, we’re building a brighter and more inclusive future. 🌟
Cypress Bay BRIDGES Tours the Y
Let’s get physical, physical! The Cypress Bay High School B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Program toured the Weston YMCA for their CBI trip in order to familiarize themselves with different physical activity options. First, the class was taken to the weight room to explore the...
Stop, Drop and Roll
The three words children and teens learn in case of a fire are: Stop, Drop and Roll. But not many know what occurs at a fire station, the firefighter’s role, or the training that goes into becoming one. With that being said, the Cypress Bay B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Program took...
CBHS BRIDGES at HDS
The B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students from the Bay made their way to Housing Development Services, Inc. in Weston for their weekly Community Based Instruction trip. This visit gave students and teachers the opportunity to learn more about the different options students can take...
Homestead BRIDGES Discover Their Inner Artists
As Autism Awareness Month is approaching, the Homestead Senior Highschool B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Program has been exploring their creative side. They visited Painting with a Twist in The Falls for one of their Community Based Instruction trips. Students, Teachers, HDS...
Cypress BRIDGES Class Become Artists for the Day
Looking for a one of a kind and creative experience to enjoy with your friends? Painting Fiesta is the place to go. The Cypress Bay B.R.I.D.G.E.S. class went on their weekly CBI trip to A Painting Fiesta Art Studio in Weston where they had the opportunity to feel like...
Cypress Bay BRIDGES Eats More Chikin
Chik-Fil-A nuggs and fries? Need I say more?! The Cypress Bay High School B.R.I.D.G.E.S. class headed out on their Community Based Instruction trip to Chik-Fil-A in Weston. Like many other CBI trips, students arrived, looked over the delicious menu, and decided what...
Cypress Bay B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Visit Lucille’s American Cafe
Last week, the Cypress Bay High School B.R.I.D.G.E.S. class took a trip to Lucille’s American Café for their educational CBI. The students were able to enjoy a delicious lunch together, while also practicing their day to day skills of budgeting, independence and...
You Had Me at Pizza
Pizza Pizza Pizza! Last week, the Cypress Bay High School B.R.I.D.G.E.S. class took on a three-part pizza challenge that gave students the opportunity to practice their budgeting, independence, development and social skills. The first part of the challenge took...
CBHS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. First CBI of the Year!
The new year has started for the Cypress Bay B.R.I.D.G.E.S. class! Yesterday, the students went on their first CBI trip of the year to the Bank of America and Panera Bread where they were able to engage in their budgeting, resources, independence and social skills....
CBHS BRIDGES Spreads Christmas Cheer
The season of giving is upon us! This means making others feel special by showing love and appreciation. Many get the special pleasure of spreading holiday cheer to their community by giving gifts and making wishes come true. With that being said, the Cypress Bay...