Why This Work Matters: Celebrating the Growth and Success of Our Students
Some people are fortunate to find a career they are truly passionate about. From my beginnings as a public-school teacher to my role as Program Manager of the HDS Foundation, I have had the privilege of working with the most incredible and inspiring students with unique abilities—both in high school and college—through our B.R.I.D.G.E.S., College Mentors, and our support of programs like University of North Florida THRIVE Program.
Watching our students grow, build confidence, and step into their futures as they prepare for graduation is both inspiring and deeply rewarding. Their determination, resilience, and joy remind me every day why this work matters.
Here’s to our amazing students, who show us that with the right support and belief, anything is possible.
Turning Challenges into Purpose: Carter Bonas Inspires B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students
As the founder of Carter’s Spectrum Golf and Spectrum Farm, he is helping others build confidence, learn life skills, and embrace healthier lifestyles. Our students were truly inspired, not only by his story, but by the chance to connect with him personally (even discovering a shared love of gaming!).
Carter showed us all that with determination, passion, and heart, anything is possible!
Congratulations B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students!
City of Stars: Celebrating a Night to Remember at Prom
The B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students had an unforgettable time celebrating Prom with this year’s ‘City of Stars’ theme
Students enjoyed a magical evening filled with great food, dancing, and socializing with friends. It was a night full of joy, connection, and lasting memories under the stars!
Through the support of the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. grant, students were able to join and engage in this inclusive school event.
A truly special night that will shine bright in their memories for years to come!
A Perfect End-of-Year Celebration
After a fantastic year of hard work and achievement, the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students celebrated with a fun-filled trip to Bird Bowl! Students enjoyed bowling, sharing pizza, and challenging one another in arcade games.
The day was full of laughter, excitement, and unforgettable memories with friends—making it the perfect way to relax, have fun, and celebrate an incredible school year together.
Mindfulness in Motion!
The B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students enjoyed a peaceful afternoon at Weston Regional Park, participating in a guided yoga and mindfulness session surrounded by the trees. Through stretching, focused breathing, and grounding techniques, students practiced being present,...
Movie Day Fun & Real-World Skills in Action!
The B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students had a fantastic Friday outing at AMC Theater! Before the movie, students explored the menu, chose their own snacks, and practiced budgeting with a $20 limit—calculating totals to make sure they stayed on track. At the theater, they...
Best Buddies South Florida Walk
Our Miami‑Dade B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students proudly participated in the Best Buddies Walk at Loan Depot Park! Walking alongside peers, families, and volunteers, they celebrated inclusion, friendship, and belonging while giving back to the community. We are so proud of...
Dan Marino Foundation Autism Acceptance Family Sunday
Yesterday, we had the pleasure of participating in the Dan Marino Foundation Autism Acceptance Family Sunday—a truly meaningful day dedicated to connection, inclusion, and support for our Autism community. The HDS Foundation, alongside many other nonprofits and...
B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students go to Jersey Mike’s!
This week, our students put real world skills into action with a lunchtime trip to Jersey Mikes! Before heading out, students planned their meals within a given budget, practiced decision making, and reviewed expectations for dining in the community. They enjoyed...
Autism Acceptance Month Celebration at Miami‑Dade B.R.I.D.G.E.S.
This week, the Miami‑Dade B.R.I.D.G.E.S. teachers hosted a morning filled with inclusion, learning, and fun as the entire student body came together to celebrate Autism Acceptance Month. The event highlighted the strength of community and the importance of acceptance...
B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Building Connections in the Community!
Our B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students had an incredible experience at the David Posnak Jewish Community Center, where they learned about the GAP Program and spent time at Square Bowl—both designed to promote independence, inclusion, and real‑world skill building. The GAP...
2nd Annual Parent Night: Connect, Learn & Support
HDS Foundation hosted a successful 2nd Annual Parent Night at Outback, featuring guest speaker Nathalie Stanish, Manager at UM/NSU CARD- Center for Autism and Related Disorders. Parents from our B.R.I.D.G.E.S. classes received important information on post‑secondary...
B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Go to College!
Our students had an amazing day exploring Broward College, getting a firsthand look at college life, academic programs, and the supports available to students with disabilities. One of the highlights was a hands-on STEM session where students coded and programmed Lego...
World Autism Day
Today, on World Autism Day, we stand with the global community to promote acceptance and learn how we can better support the Autism community. This day encourages us to learn together and build communities that reflect understanding, inclusion and support. Let’s...