Celebrating Autism Acceptance with Miguel

Celebrating Autism Acceptance with Miguel

I had an amazing conversation with Miguel about Autism Acceptance Month!  We talked about what this month means to him personally and why shifting the focus from awareness to true acceptance is so important. His insights were so powerful because at the end of the day, acceptance is what truly creates inclusion and understanding.

April is Autism Awareness Month!

April is Autism Awareness Month!

Join us as we celebrate neurodiversity, raise awareness, and advocate for inclusion and acceptance. This month, we’ll be sharing resources, personal stories, and ways you can support the autism community.  Together, we can make a difference. Let’s spread understanding and kindness!

BRIDGES Students Gain Lifelong Skills

BRIDGES Students Gain Lifelong Skills

Our Broward County students had an amazing opportunity to showcase their micro-enterprise at the monthly ESE Specialist meeting for the district! With the support of staff, they created and sold handmade pens and keychains—earning an impressive $130 in sales!
This hands-on experience not only helped them develop business skills but also highlighted their creativity and hard work. Way to go, future entrepreneurs!

BRIDGES Students Cultivate Confidence Through Gardening

BRIDGES Students Cultivate Confidence Through Gardening

The Broward BRIDGES students have been hard at work in their school garden, taking care of several garden beds by weeding, watering, and tending to a variety of vegetables and herbs!  Each student plays an important role—whether it’s filling water cans, pulling weeds, or making sure the plants get the care they need.

When it’s time to harvest, these fresh ingredients will be used to create delicious recipes, bringing their hard work full circle! Hands-on learning at its best!

Fun Day at the Fair!

Fun Day at the Fair!

Recently, our Miami Dade BRIDGES Students had an amazing time visiting the Miami Dade Youth Fair as part of a Community-Based Instruction (CBI) outing. From the moment they arrived, excitement filled the air as they explored the fairgrounds, eager to experience the rides and attractions.

One of the best parts of the day was watching the pure joy on their faces after each ride. No matter if it was a thrilling roller coaster, a spinning attraction, or a classic fair ride, every single time they stepped off, they would enthusiastically say, “I loved that ride!” Their excitement never wavered, making it clear how much fun they were having.

Beyond the rides, the students also enjoyed spending time together, sharing laughs, and making unforgettable memories. One student even mentioned that one of his favorite parts of the CBI was when Ms. Kate came, highlighting the meaningful connections and impact these experiences create.

It was a fantastic day at the Youth Fair, full of joy, adventure, and moments that remind us of the importance of community and shared experiences!

HDS Foundation Supports The Friendship Journey Gala

HDS Foundation Supports The Friendship Journey Gala

What a beautiful evening we shared together at The Friendship Journey 4th Annual Friendship Gala this past weekend! Friends, families, non-profits, and city officials all came to support the mission of The Friendship Journey: Creating connections amongst friends of...

15th Anniversary

15th Anniversary

Today we celebrate 15 years of making a difference in the lives of teens and young adults with Autism and related abilities. Our commitment and dedication to provide impactful programs to help individuals transition successfully from high school to their...

HDS Companies Help Raise Awareness Against Bullying

HDS Companies Help Raise Awareness Against Bullying

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...

HDS Celebrates American Business Women’s Day

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...

🌟 HDS Foundation Celebrates Non-Profit Day! 🌟

🌟 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...

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S Students Learn Water Safety

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S Students Learn Water Safety

In celebration of National Water Safety Month in May, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students are embarking on a two-week program at the Y.M.C.A. to acquire fundamental water safety knowledge. This includes essential skills like floating, treading water, and holding their...