
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.
After banking, the students headed to Panera for lunch! Some deposits weren’t immediately credited, so students’ problem-solved by tracking their purchases and reimbursing their teachers via Zelle in the next class. This experience reinforced essential online banking skills and real-world money management.
Through this outing, the students covered key BRIDGES areas:
B – Budgeting
R – Resources
S – Social Skills
Great job to all our students for practicing independence and problem-solving!

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 month, we celebrate those who give their time, knowledge, and heart to lift others up. Let’s take a moment to thank the mentors who have shaped our lives and celebrate the power of mentorship in creating brighter futures for all.

A Night to Remember at the Friendship Journey Gala!
A Night to Remember at the Friendship Journey Gala!
The HDS Foundation had an incredible evening celebrating friendship and community at the Friendship Journey Gala. We are beyond honored to have received the Community Champion Award, recognizing our dedication to fostering inclusion and opportunities for all.
The excitement didn’t stop there—our very own board member, Kate Gilson-Miranda, won the Theatre Lovers Raffle Basket, adding even more joy to the night!
From heartfelt moments to fun surprises, it was truly a night filled with connection, celebration, and laughter. A good time was had by all, and we are already looking forward to the next one!

POV: Ringing in the Holiday Season
What an incredible time we had at the Miami Lakes Festival of the Lights! From the dazzling lights to the festive music and holiday cheer, it was truly a magical night.
A huge thank you to the Graham Company for organizing such an amazing event and bringing the community together in such a special way. Your dedication makes this season brighter for everyone!
We also want to send a heartfelt thank you to all the amazing people who stopped by our table! Your support means the world to us, and we’re so excited to see how you’ll help spread the word about our foundation and the work we’re doing. Together, we can make a real impact.
Here’s to more community, connection, and holiday spirit!

HDS Foundation Hosts the Inaugural We R.I.S.E for Autism Golf Classic, Presented by HDS Companies in Support of the Autism Community
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – HDS Foundation (HDSF) successfully hosted its inaugural We R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic at Jacaranda Golf Club in Plantation, renowned as South Florida’s premier semi-private golf facility. The tournament was Presented by HDS Companies,...

City of Plantation Proclamation at HDS Foundation – We R.I.S.E. for Autism Day!
We would like to thank the @cityofplantation Florida Council Member and @plantationlouis for supporting the Autism Community and presenting us with the City of Plantation Proclamation designating April 26, 2024 as HDS Foundation - We R.I.S.E. for Autism Day!

We R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic was a great success!
The @hdsfoundation We R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic, presented by the HDS Companies was a great success! Our mission is to help teens and young adults with Autism bridge the gap from high school to their post-secondary journey. Special thanks to our amazing...

Autism Acceptance Day!
Today, we’re lighting it up blue for Autism Acceptance Day! Let’s celebrate the unique strengths and talents of individuals on the spectrum. Together, let’s promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for all.

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month!
March marks the beginning of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month! Throughout this month, we have the incredible opportunity to shine a light on the unique abilities, talents, and perspectives of individuals with developmental disabilities. It's a time to...

Happy National Mentoring Month
Guide, inspire, and make a difference in someone’s life. Become a mentor today! Happy National Mentoring Month to all the Mentors out there in our community!

We R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic
We are excited to share our inaugural We R.I.S.E. for Autism Golf Classic, presented by HDS Companies on Friday, April 26th at @jacarandagolfclub. Swing into action to support our programs for teens and young adults with Autism. Register now at...

Highlights of 2023
The HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students demonstrated valuable life skills during their Community Based Instruction field trip to Panera. Students practiced ordering takeout which showcased their independence, while incorporating budgeting skills emphasizing responsible...

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
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...