Budgeting | Resources | Independent Functioning | Development | Growth | Empowerment | Social Skills
The HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Program supports the development of school-based social and community life skills activities designed to meet the needs of ASD High School Students. Structured in the form of a grant, the Foundation encourages High School ESE Departments to create school-based programs that provide opportunities year-round for Social, Independence, Community and Personal Development to teens who have Developmental Disabilities within this population. The recipients of the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Grant can accomplish this by incorporating various community based-field trips to local businesses who are poised to provide potential future employment, life skills development initiatives such as establishing bank accounts, shopping opportunities, learning about transportation options, and social skills opportunities during the school year that allow for the inclusion of these students to typical high school activities such as Homecoming, Football Games, Prom, and many others. These are conduits to building better communication tools, peer mentoring, fostering friendships, and preparation for life after high school, including post-secondary.
HDS BRIDGES GRANT
The HDS Foundation provides Grant Opportunities to candidate Programs that meet the criteria of the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Program goals. One or more Grants may be issued per year. For more information on the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S Grant, click below.
Exploring Career Paths in the World of Hospitality and Tourism: Insights from Marina Miranda
At the end of the 2022-2023 academic year, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. class concluded with an informative session featuring Marina Miranda as the last guest speaker for its Career Series. Marina, who graduated from UCF, shared her journey and expertise with the class. Her...
HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Celebrate End of School Year
Every year, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students eagerly anticipate their final Community-Based Instruction field trip, where they enjoy a delicious lunch at Japan Inn. Over the last two weeks, both HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. classes had the opportunity to enjoy lunch celebrating...
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...