
Autism Acceptance Month

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 celebrate their strengths, champion inclusivity, and raise awareness about the importance of creating supportive and accessible communities for all.
Join us as we embark on a journey of understanding, empathy, and advocacy. Let’s challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and foster environments where every person, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
Throughout Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we’ll be sharing stories, resources, and initiatives aimed at promoting acceptance, empowerment, and equal opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Together, let’s build a more inclusive world where everyone is valued, respected, and embraced for who they are.
Join us in celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month! Together, we can make a difference.

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 www.werisegolfclassic.org/.

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 decision-making. Additionally, the experience provided an opportunity to enhance social skills through interactions in a real world setting, contributing to their overall development.
“Tis the Season to Give”
This past week, both of our Cypress Bay HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. programs celebrated the holiday season at Chili's Bar & Grill, enjoying friendship and a delicious lunch. They all ordered burgers, chicken nuggets, chicken fajitas, and more. But the one thing they all...

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Bowl for the Lucky Strike
The HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students headed out for fun with their peers to practice their bowling skills; their motto was "Be bold and go for the strike!" When students arrived at the bowling alley, they first had to find their correct bowling shoe size and then change...

Our Chairman and President featured this week in Voyage MIA Magazine’s “Shout Out Miami” series
We were featured this week in Voyage MIA Magazine's “Shout Out Miami” series. Thank you to Voyage MIA for showcasing how our programs are preparing young people with Autism and related abilities to succeed. Read more at http://bit.ly/3HiSQTV.
Giving Is Better Than Receiving!
Today the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students headed on a shopping trip to Walmart to purchase holiday gifts for their siblings. This Community Based Instruction is designed to help students practice their budgeting skills as students are given a specific budget. One of the...
Ice Cream Sundae Challenge!
The B.R.I.D.G.E.S. class participated in an Ice Cream Sundae Challenge for their Community Based Instruction activity this week. The day before the event, students were put in teams of 3-4. They had to work together to decide what flavor ice cream and 3 toppings...
HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students take on the “Secret Elf”
This holiday season, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students took on the "Secret Elf" title for the morning as they headed out to Walmart to do some holiday shopping for their friends! The mission was: to stay under $25 (including tax) and purchase the items that were listed...

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Carry Out Acts of Kindness
Today's Community Based Instruction (CBI) trip for the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students was fantastic. The goal of this CBI was to purchase gifts for the senior citizens receiving care at the Daniel D. Cantor Senior Center as well as the children who would be spending the...

A heartfelt THANK YOU for your support on Give Miami Day.
A heartfelt THANK YOU for your support on Give Miami Day. Your generosity allows us to expand our programs at the local high schools and make a difference in the lives of students with autism spectrum disorder in gaining life skills in their journey to post-secondary...

Help us to thank our amazing Team at HDS Companies.
Help us to thank our amazing Team at HDS Companies for their support through our Give Miami Day Kick-Off, Game Day, and Pep Rally. Let’s go, Team HDS! Remember your gifts to HDS Foundation during this philanthropic event makes a greater impact on all of our students....

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Host a Friendsgiving Luncheon
Today the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students hosted a Friendsgiving Luncheon with special friends from another class, staff members, and administrators. Everyone was treated to a delicious smorgasbord of their favorite traditional Thanksgiving foods cooked by a personal...