
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 they love, and inspiring others along the way.
Meet Meygan, a 2021 high school graduate and proud B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Program alumna who continues to make a difference! Meygan participated in the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Program for two years and is now pursuing her passion as an Education Major at Broward College. Recently, she reconnected with the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. teachers and is now volunteering in the classroom twice a week, making a meaningful impact on the students currently in the program. She’s also a dedicated tutor, helping students who need support in Algebra 2 and helping to build their confidence. Beyond the classroom, Meygan stays connected with several of her B.R.I.D.G.E.S. classmates, enjoying social activities together or spending time studying. Meygan plans to transfer to Florida International University to finish her degree in Education, and we have no doubt she’s going to be an incredible teacher!

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 Miami Dade Fire Rescue & Hispanic American Firefighters Association, hands-on CPR training, fun with temporary tattoos, visits from friendly service dogs, and a high-energy performance by the school band and cheerleaders!
It was a beautiful day full of inclusion, friendship, and fun, a perfect reminder of the power of community.

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 Best Buddies leadership, where she had the honor of meeting Anthony Shriver. The day continued with the launch celebration of I Am Maria, Maria Shriver’s new book. Kate was invited to share one of the poems from I Am Maria. That evening, at a special gathering at Books & Books, Kate was asked to close out the event by reading one of Maria’s poems. Her heartfelt performance left a lasting impression and earned her a well-deserved standing ovation. We are beyond proud of Kate and all that she continues to do to inspire, uplift, and advocate for inclusion and friendship.

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!

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
This month, we celebrate the talents, strengths, and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities while promoting inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities for all. Whether it’s in school, the workplace, or the community, everyone deserves to...

HDS BRIDGES Students Making a Difference!
Our HDS BRIDGES class in Broward County recently took part in two CBI shopping trips, turning a lesson in budgeting and community service into a heartfelt project for children in need. Five Below: Students were given a $4.00 budget to purchase crayons for the school...

Happy Valentine’s Day from our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students
Our Miami Dade County students celebrated with a fun-filled ice cream social, making heartfelt cards and decorations. The day was all about creativity, teamwork, and sweet memories. Meanwhile, our Broward students practiced pre-employment skills, selling keychains and...

Our Experience with the THRIVE Program at University of North Florida!
Last Thursday morning, we had the amazing opportunity to visit the North Florida School of Special Education (NFSSE) and see firsthand how they empower students with intellectual and developmental differences. From Berry Good Farms and Art With Soul to their...

Super Bowl LIX Fun!
This weekend’s Super Bowl LIX matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles had our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students very excited! Leading up to the big game, students made their predictions and tallied votes—with the Chiefs as the predicted winners!...

Students Build Financial Skills in Real-World Banking
On Friday, January 24th, our Social Personal Skills Class took a hands-on approach to financial literacy with a CBI outing to Bank of America! Students practiced depositing checks at the ATM using their debit cards—after first honing their banking skills in class....

Fitness Fun with Our Miami Dade Students!
This week our amazing Miami Dade students had the opportunity to visit Caution Crossfit for an unforgettable workout experience! They jumped, lifted, and stretched their way through a fantastic session, all while learning the importance of staying active and healthy....

January is Mentoring Month!
Mentors play a vital role in shaping our future by offering guidance, encouragement, and support when we need it most. Whether it's helping us navigate a challenge, inspiring us to reach our goals, or just being there to listen, mentors make a lasting impact. This...

Join us as we celebrate our 16th anniversary!
Join us as we celebrate our 16th anniversary! HDS Foundation has been a source of empowerment, creating opportunities and fostering growth within the Autism Community. It’s been an incredible journey filled with memories, growth, and all of YOU who make this community...

Unity Day
“Unity to be real must stand the severest strain without breaking.” Mahatma Gandhi