2023 Annual Impact Report ELS FOR AUTISM ® Where Possibilities are Endless ® EDUCATE • TRANSFORM • COLLABORATE
Welcome Letter from the Founders 2 Autism “The Facts” and Global Research Study 3 About Els for Autism 4 Five-Year Strategic Plan 5 Financials and By the Numbers 6 Lifespan Services Primary Impact Areas 8 Female Mental Health 10 Success stories 11 Making an Impact Worldwide 12 2022 Autism Spectrum Award 13 Many Ways to Make an Impact Golf Challenge Series 14 Support Your Way 15 Volunteer 16 Officers, Board Members, and Executive Leadership 18 Advisory Board 19 Transformative Growth 20 Table of CONTENTS ® Copyright 2023 Els for Autism® The Els Center of Excellence, Ernie Els #GameOn Autism, Els for Autism Foundation, Ernie Els Els for Autism + Flag Device and Ribbon Logo are all trademarks of Blue Ocean Trademarks NV. Other names and brands listed in this report may be claimed as the property of others.
DEAR FRIENDS,
We celebrated many noteworthy milestones in 2022 and we have an incredibly exciting year ahead of us but, first, let us start with 2022. April marked the groundbreaking ceremony for The Stoops Family Foundation Adult Services building, with construction starting shortly thereafter. If all goes according to plan, the Adult Services clients will move into the building during the beginning of the third quarter of 2023. This will allow us to expand our local, national, and global reach of vocational training, employer partnerships, job placement, and therapeutic, recreational/social programs for our adult clients, their families, and community partners.
This past July, our locations in Canada, South Africa, the U.K., and the U.S., teamed up to compete in the inaugural International Ernie Els #GameON Autism® golf tournament which was live-streamed over Instagram. The goal of the tournament was to demonstrate the impact the Ernie Els #GameON Autism golf program has on the lives of individuals with autism, their families, and global communities. Looking to 2023, we plan to hold this tournament again and have an even greater reach and impact.
Another example of our global expansion was our collaboration with Blairwood Academy in Nassau, The Bahamas. The partnership started with Blairwood Academy becoming an Official Program Provider of the Ernie Els #GameON Autism golf but soon expanded with the Foundation’s staff providing professional development to their teaching staff via telehealth and offering the Els for Autism Work Experience Program within their transition to adult education and vocational programs.
One of the largest undertakings of the year, spearheaded by our Executive Director, Dr. Marlene Sotelo, was the completion of the Five-Year Strategic Plan. In the first quarter of 2023, we rolled out a new Mission, Vision, Values, Goals, Areas of Focus, and Tag Line – “Where possibilities are endless”. You will see and hear more about this as it is implemented.
2023 kicked off with excitement as the Foundation hosted the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation meeting in January. We were able to showcase the impact we are making within the local and global autism communities. Our drive to complete The Els Center of Excellence® campus continues with our next project being the Recreation Complex which will include a gymnasium, aquatic center, and splash pad. 2023 will be an exciting yet challenging year as we kick off a new Capital Campaign to fund these venues.
When we started the Foundation in 2009, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published autism prevalence rate was one in 88. Today, the CDC’s prevalence rate is one in 36. While we believe this number has grown through expanded research and awareness, it supports the compelling and urgent need to increase access to diagnostic evaluations and services across the lifespan. We plan to continue to lead the way in this endeavor because we envision a world of limitless possibilities for individuals with autism and their families.
With sincere gratitude,
Ernie Els Founder Liezl Els Founder & Managing Director
Marvin R. Shanken Founder & Honorary Chairman
AUTISM THE FACTS
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. The term “spectrum” refers to the wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of impairment in functioning that can occur in people with autism. Some people with ASD have a known difference, such as a genetic condition. Other causes are not yet known. Scientists believe multiple causes of ASD act together to change the most common ways people develop. We still have much to learn about these causes and how they impact people with ASD.
ABOUT 1 in 36
CHILDREN has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
~ 4 times more common among boys than among girls
ASD is reported to occur in ALL racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups
Source: National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
GLOBAL RESEARCH STUDY
We always listen and learn from those we serveindividuals with autism and those who care for them. Over the years, our Advisory Board has guided us on many topics, and in 2022, they brought forth the question of symbols and language associated with ASD. Should we continue to use a puzzle piece as the status quo symbol for ASD or shift to the infinity symbol many autistic advocates have promoted? Should we use person first language (person with autism) versus identity first language (autistic person)? The Advisory Board challenged us to change the narrative around April, Autism Awareness Month, and instead to shift forward from awareness to acceptance and appreciation by changing our narrative to World Autism Month.
With a new perspective in hand, and charged to make a change, we embarked on a collaborative research study with members of our campus-wide research team led by the Executive Director of The Learning Academy (one of the Palm Beach County public charter schools hosted on our campus), Dr. Toby Honsberger to find out what people around the world
felt about the topic of language and symbols in autism. The result was a multifaceted survey, translated into four languages, with over 1,200 respondents from 14 different countries.
Most of the respondents were professionals in the field and parents, with the lowest number of participants being individuals with autism, and their preferences differed from the others. The majority of respondents preferred the use of person first language. Parents and professionals preferred autism awareness and the puzzle piece symbol while individuals with autism preferred autism acceptance and the infinity symbol. The results of the study were presented on January 14, 2023, at the state-wide conference for the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities.
PREVALENCE
AUTISM “THE FACTS” AND GLOBAL RESEARCH STUDY | 3 2 | WELCOME
In 2009, World of Golf Hall of Famer and four-time major champion, Ernie Els, his wife, Liezl, and Marvin R. Shanken, established Els for Autism Foundation®. The Els’ son, Ben, is impacted by autism spectrum disorder. The Foundation serves families throughout the world via telehealth therapeutic and virtual programs and offers in-person programs and services at The Els Center of Excellence campus in Jupiter, Florida.
FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN
Els for Autism leadership team embarked on the five-year strategic plan journey in the first quarter of 2022. In advance of developing the five-year strategic plan, an internal and external environmental scan was conducted to enable the plan to reflect pressing organizational needs and give a voice to key constituencies vital to the Els for Autism organization. Included in this environmental scan were autism experts, board members, community officials, major donors, program participants, Foundation staff, The Learning Center staff, The Learning Academy staff, Els for Autism Golf Challenge participants, and sponsors. These key constituencies provided the impetus for developing the five-year strategic plan through their knowledge, observations, and insights shared.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES NEW
MISSION
ELS FOR AUTISM GLOBAL MISSION IS TO TRANSFORM THE LIVES OF PEOPLE WITH AUTISM AND THOSE WHO CARE FOR THEM THROUGH LIFETIME SERVICES AND COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIPS.
VISION
WE ENVISION A WORLD OF LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM AND THEIR FAMILIES.
VALUES
TRUST | COLLABORATION | INTEGRITY RESPECT | EXCELLENCE | INNOVATION
WORLD LEADER IN TRANSDISCIPLINARY CUSTOMIZED PROGRAMS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH ASD
GOVERNANCE THAT ADVANCES THE MISSION AND GLOBAL IMPACT
MANAGEMENT/STAFFING THAT ENSURES A WORLD-CLASS STATUS
AWARENESS AND ENGAGEMENT THAT DRIVES INCREASED FUNDRAISING AND PROGRAM EXPANSION
LONG-TERM SUSTAINABILITY
GOALS NEW
We are committed and confident that our mission, vision, and goals are within reach.
FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN | 5 4 | ABOUT ELS FOR AUTISM
LIEZL ELS, Founder and Managing Director
By the NUMBERS THE ELS CENTER OF EXCELLENCE® 2022 OUTREACH | Number of individuals participating in non-direct services Palm Beach County Public Charter Schools hosted at The Els Center of Excellence THE LEARNING CENTER 148 students THE LEARNING ACADEMY 125 students 273 students TOTAL REVENUE & SUPPORT $10,978,032 Individual Contributions $2,250,444 Programs, Rents, & Other $1,764,594 Business Contributions $3,002,296 Foundation & Grants $3,679,038 Note: Revenue includes $2,541,035 of capital contributions. Numbers exclude in-kind and investment activity. Administrative $420,351 Fundraising $756,652 Programs $6,217,163 TOTAL EXPENSES $7,394,166 *Audited Other $281,660 BY THE NUMBERS | 7 Els for Autism Foundation Programs and Services 270 LOCAL CLIENTS 15 GLOBAL CLIENTS = 285 CLIENTS* 98 new in 2022 *16% of clients are from the on-campus charter schools. pre-k 12% adults 49% school-age 39% awareness volunteers 1,163 hours @ 20,598 16,860 160 6 | STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
Across A new support model 3 PRIMARY IMPACT AREAS
From the moment of diagnosis to the first and last day of school; through post-school living and learning, and getting the first paycheck, the Els for Autism team is there. Our wrap-around services begin as early as 12 months with early detection and diagnosis, followed by early intervention and education during the schoolage years. We continue the journey with those we serve by providing a variety of evidencebased therapeutic and recreational services, through adulthood, not only for the individual
THE LIFESPAN
with autism and related disabilities but also for the entire family. Our programs have been created to provide care coordination throughout the lifespan, so families feel a sense of community and belonging. They come to a place that is familiar and work with a team that knows them. We then share what we learn with the greater global community through direct in-person or telehealth services, and publishing the results of our research, to ensure that everyone around the world has access to best practices.
12 months to 7 years of age
SERVICES: diagnostics, therapeutic interventions (speechlanguage therapy, behavior therapy, occupational therapy), education (early intervention, parent training), and recreation services
School-Age
SERVICES: theraputic interventions, mental health counseling, education, and recreation services
18 years & older
SERVICES: therapeutic interventions including mental health counseling, speechlanguage, occupational therapy, education (Adult Day Program, Employment Programs, Self-Advocacy training, independent living training), social groups, and recreation services
Services threaded throughout life in three impact areas: Research, Family Support, Global Outreach
VISION
EARLY INTERVENTION & EDUCATION SERVICES RECREATION SERVICES ADULT SERVICES
Family Support Global Outreach
ELS FOR AUTISM PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
FOR THE NEXT 5 YEARS
Research
LIFESPAN SERVICES | 9
8 | LIFESPAN SERVICES
Holding hands with people with autism and those that care for them every step of the way
The Social Impact Project, Autism Without Mask, is an on-going and expanding project for children with autism to use their mother’s faces as a blank canvas. The faces photographed will be on display in Brazil and Miami. The focus of Ausitm Without Mask is to increase awareness and education about autism.
GROWING BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS
by Cassy Conroy, Cadence’s Mother
Cadence is currently in first grade at Franklin Academy. She has received the “Principal’s Honor Roll” every quarter and takes pride in her weekly speaking test scores which are all 110%! She received a “Thinker” award for showing her independent skills in problem-solving in the classroom. She participates in after-school clubs (which are different every day of the week) such as dance and fitness, LEGO® club, basketball club, cheerleading club, cooking club, and readers theatre. She had her first game as a cheerleader, where she memorized two different cheer routines and performed them during the basketball game! She was so proud of herself, and she always loves performing in front of a crowd! Even though she didn’t love the loud buzzer noise of the game, she was able to self-regulate her overstimulation and still enjoy being there.
I know, without a doubt, this would not be her future had we not had the help and guidance from the Els for Autism staff. Not just help for Cadence but help for our family. RUBI training and weekly parent training prepared my husband and me for moments outside the Foundation, moments in real life, and aiding her learning. professionals will become more skilled at diagnosing females earlier. The earlier the diagnosis, the better a female's chance of experiencing a socially successful,
A SUCCESSFUL EMPLOYMENT STORY MATTHEW AND THE CLUB AT IBIS
Matthew participated in the Work Experience Program at The Club at Ibis in 2021. He required maximal support while learning his tasks of polishing silver and rolling silverware. He was hired as an Ibis employee in 2022. Since being hired, Matthew continues to improve his skills and independence. His tasks have stayed the same throughout his time at The Club at Ibis. The Job Coach provided Matthew with multiple visual supports including a task analysis for rolling silverware, a daily schedule, and food support (what he can and cannot eat while at work). Matthew started off working one day a week but has since been given the opportunity to increase his hours. He was very excited to begin working two days a week and has transitioned easily into the change and continues to do a great job at work. We love to see how happy he is to have employment.
LIFESPAN SERVICES | 11 10 | LIFESPAN SERVICES
Dr. Erin Lozott is being painted by her daughter.
MAKING AN IMPACT WORLDWIDE
Ensuring the development of global outreach that facilitates the sharing of best practices and programs, is at the core of Els for Autism primary impact areas.
After the completion of The Seaver Els Institute study looking at the efficacy of our Spring into Action Together (SIAT) program, the brief report entitled, Assessment of a Caregiver-Implemented Intervention for Improving Social Communication Skills in Toddlers and Young Children with Autism, was published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders (JADD). The results of this study help set a foundation for a cost-effective, short-term parent-led intervention translatable across countries and cultures.
Our study, Community-based parent-training for disruptive behaviors in children with ASD using synchronous telehealth services: A pilot study based on our Telehealth 1:1 RUBI Parent Training program, was published in the journal Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders (RASD). This study was significant as it was the first of its kind to serve families from around the world and the program helped ensure free access to quality services during the pandemic.
Also published last year, was a tennis study - Shanok, N. A., & Sotelo, M. (2022) A pilot tennis program for training fitness and social behaviors in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, 62(8), 1118–1126. The aim of this pilot study was to determine the effectiveness of a tennis-training program for individuals with ASD. As a reference, the tennis-training program was the Ernie Els #GameON Autism® Tennis Program.
We are excited to be an example of excellence for the world to model. Transforming the lives of individuals with ASD and those who care for them through lifetime services and collaborative partnerships is our mission.
2022 AUTISM SPECTRUM AWARD
THE AWARD HONORS AN INDIVIDUAL WITH AUTISM WHO HAS SHINED A POSITIVE LIGHT THROUGH HIS/HER CHARACTER, POSITIVE ATTITUDE, AND CONTRIBUTION. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE AWARD AND PAST WINNERS AT ELSFORAUTISM.ORG/AUTISM-SPECTRUM-AWARD/
Gyasi Burks-Abbott is a strong self-advocate of change for individuals affected by autism. As an advisor on the Executive Employment Committee of Advocates For Autism of Massachusetts (AFAM) he is the lead self-advocate providing input driving decision making. There, he prioritizes legislation and policy changes that affect individuals with autism.
Dr. Kerry Magro effectively hosts trainings with companies titled “ROI Benefits of Hiring Talented Autistic People”, where he spreads awareness and often creates hiring opportunities for adults with autism. He also hosts annual sensory-friendly events in his hometown, which supports individuals affected by autism and special needs.
Published Research
AUTISM SPECTRUM AWARD | 13 12 | LIFESPAN SERVICES
Join the 2023 GOLF CHALLENGE
Spearheaded by World of Golf Hall of Famer, Ernie Els, the 13th annual Golf Challenge consists of a series of regional events at top-rated golf courses across the United States and Canada from April through October. The Golf Challenge regional event series is one of the largest charity-driven, amateur golf tournaments. Teams who raise $15,000 or more qualify to attend the Grand Finale event in October. Learn more at e4agolf.com
START AN AFFILIATE EVENT
The Els for Autism Affiliate Program is a volunteer-run fundraiser that includes Els for Autism as a benefiting charity of the event. The host of each affiliate event is responsible for their own fundraising efforts, programs, registrations, and volunteers.
Examples of affiliate events include, but are not limited to, a golf tournament, charity auction, 5K walk or run, casino night, fashion show, gala, and more! Each affiliate event will receive an Els for Autism branded gift for each attendee along with an exclusive auction item package including Ernie Els’ memorabilia. Learn more at elsforautism.org/getinvolved/fundraising-events/affiliate-events/
PARTICIPATE IN FUNDRAISING EVENTS
Throughout the year, the Els for Autism team puts on many fundraising events including the Roots & Ruts OffRoad 5K Run/Walk, Liezl’s Annual Tea Party, giveback events, and more. Check for the Foundation’s activities at elsforautism.org/get-involved/
SUPPORT YOUR WAY
GENERAL DONATIONS
As a nonprofit organization, Els for Autism programs and services rely on charitable financial support. There are many ways that you can give to ensure that people with autism continue to receive the support they need. Learn more at elsforautism.org/ways-to-give/ or to donate, scan this QR code. If you prefer to mail your donation, please make checks payable to Els for Autism, 18370 Limestone Creek Road, Jupiter, Florida 33458.
SEA OF POSSIBILITIES
Sea of Possibilities is a microbusiness run by participants in the Adult Day Training (ADT) program. Initiated in 2020, Sea of Possibilities participants create a variety of ocean-themed art projects using materials from the beach such as shells, driftwood, coral, sand, and sea glass. In addition to creating art projects, participants benefit from the program through learning opportunities including design and development of products, staying on task, communication skills, community inclusion, motor skills, sales transactions, and vocational skills. Learn more at elsforautism.org/sea-of-possibilities/
JOSH SILVER BANKS SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Josh Silver Banks passed away in January 2021 at the age of 33. In his honor, the Els for Autism team created The Josh Banks Memorial Scholarship Fund. Donations made to the Scholarship Fund provide financial assistance to families in need. When you donate to the Scholarship Fund, you are providing access to quality programs and interventions for people with autism. Learn more at elsforautism.org/scholarship-fund/
CRYPTOCURRENCY
We are now accepting cryptocurrency donations! There are many ways to positively enhance the lives of individuals impacted by autism, their families, and caregivers. Learn more at elsforautism.org/ways-to-give/ cryptocurrency-donations/
Els for Autism is a US 501(c)(3) public charity (EIN #26-3520396). Donors should consult their tax advisor to determine whether they are eligible to claim a deduction associated with their donation.
MANY WAYS TO MAKE AN IMPACT | 15
14 | MANY WAYS TO MAKE AN IMPACT
VOLUNTEER
Our volunteers are incredible contributors; they make a positive and measurable impact.
I have been working with individuals with ASD in Brazil for many years as an Occupational Therapist, with a passion to be with children and provide quality of life and wellbeing! When I had the opportunity to move to Florida, I found out about Els for Autism through some friends. It is a great pleasure to exchange experiences with such a nice team! I will continue next year, as it is something that fulfills me as a professional and a human being.
I volunteer at Els for Autism because it is an organization that makes a difference for children and adults and their families every day with wonderful programs and services, and I want to contribute to that in every way that I can. Working with a team of caring professionals is rewarding, and their focus on new innovative services is challenging and rewarding.
JAMES WILLIAMS, Retired CEO, Easterseals, and Executive Coach and Development Volunteer
Music Therapy, Dance Therapy, and Kickball
I come in once a week and help with the Sea of Possibilities art program. I think it’s a fantastic program where everybody gets to play a part in creating beautiful pieces to sell. I love seeing all the different, wonderful things they make, and to see everyone enjoying their time.
LUCY UHLER, Sea of Possibilities Microbusiness Volunteer
My volunteer experience with the Els for Autism Foundation started 13 years ago as an employee at SAP. I supported Steve Peck who at that time was a founding Co-Chair of the Golf Challenge. I have been blessed to volunteer ever since. I love to see how many family’s lives have been enriched through, not just the schools, but the many programs they offer. Els for Autism Foundation is ‘Best in Class’ and very well-run which is why I proudly support them.
Having a nephew on the spectrum and wishing the opportunities like what the Els for Autism Foundation make possible existed for him is why I love volunteering for the Els for Autism Golf Challenge. Volunteering allows me to make a difference for future generations with autism. Ernie and Liezl’s dedication, commitment, and passion for the cause are contagious and resonate with all those impacted by autism.
I chose to volunteer at The Els Center of Excellence so that I could get out of my comfort zone and work on expanding my skill set as a person. But most importantly because I love helping others. What that grew into is a real passion for The Els Center of Excellence and a deep respect for all those involved in it.
STACEY TABORELLI, SAP employee, Els for Autism Golf Challenge Volunteer
ANGEL AZAT, Executive Assistant, SAP, Els for Autism Golf Challenge Volunteer
DAVIS DICKINSON, College Student, Golf and Summer Camp Volunteer
ADRIANA FARINAS, Occupational Therapist, Adult Day Training program,
Volunteer
MARLENE SOTELO, BCBA-D, MT-BC Executive Director, Els for Autism
MANY WAYS TO MAKE AN IMPACT | 17 FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES VISIT, ELSFORAUTISM.ORG/GET-INVOLVED/VOLUNTEER/ 16 | MANY WAYS TO MAKE AN IMPACT
ON MARCH 08, 2023, ELS FOR AUTISM FOUNDATION ANNOUNCED THE APPOINTMENT OF VISIONARY AUTISM EXPERT, DR. MICHAEL ALESSANDRI AS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD. ALESSANDRI, WHO JOINED THE ELS FOR AUTISM BOARD IN 2019, SUCCEEDS MARVIN R. SHANKEN, CO-FOUNDER, ELS FOR AUTISM FOUNDATION AND PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER OF M.SHANKEN COMMUNICATIONS. SHANKEN BECOMES THE HONORARY CHAIRMAN.
OFFICERS
DR. MICHAEL ALESSANDRI (CHAIRMAN)
Executive Director, University of Miami Center for Autism and Related Disabilities
LIEZL ELS (SECRETARY AND MANAGING DIRECTOR)
Founder, Els for Autism Foundation
BOARD MEMBERS
ERNIE ELS
Founder, Els for Autism Foundation
GIUSEPPE CIUCCI
Chief Executive, Chairman of the Board, Stonehage Limited
STUART MAKIN (TREASURER)
Partner, Stonehage Limited (non-voting member)
PATRICK MCMAHON
Founder, Chief Executive Officer, Co-Chief Investment Officer, MKP Capital Management, LLC
PAMELA MINELLI
Co-Founder of the Autism Project of Palm Beach County
STEVE PECK
SAP Global Alliance Relationship Leader, EY
MARVIN R. SHANKEN (HONORARY CHAIRMAN)
THE ADVISORY BOARD IS MADE UP OF SELFADVOCATES, AND THEY SERVE TO PROVIDE RECOMMENDATIONS THROUGH THEIR LIFE EXPERIENCES TO ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF THE FOUNDATION’S INTERACTIONS WITH CLIENTS, THEIR FAMILIES, AND CAREGIVERS.
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS
SUE ABRAMOWSK
ANDREW BLITMAN
GYASI BURKS-ABBOTT
MIKE DIMAURO
MERRICK EGBER (CHAIRMAN)
ADAM JONES
DR. KERRY MAGRO
PAUL MORRIS
RON SANDISON
KATIE SANTORO
DR. STEPHEN SHORE
CONNOR B. STURGIS
JAMES A. WILLIAMS
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERSMAKE A MEANINGFUL IMPACT by Merrick Egber
Since 2018, Els for Autism Foundation staff have benefitted from the existence of our Advisory Board. The Advisory Board is made up of self-advocates, all with major roles to play, and I, Merrick Egber, am the Chairperson. The Advisory Board Members serve to advise and provide recommendations through their life experiences and to enhance the quality of the Foundation’s interactions with clients, their families, and caregivers. Last year, we had each of the 2022 Board Members interviewed on our own Fore Autism Podcast, and the interviews were spectacular.
Our Board Members provide valuable input, and they serve as autism authorities on a global level. Several participated in last year’s Autism Language/Symbols Survey and disseminated it through their network, along with several participating in the survey to name the Adult Services Building’s café. They provided input on the U CAN EMPLOY Manual which is an authoritative source for employers wanting to hire people with ASD. In addition, their feedback was essential to a Myndstream Project which provides a piece of soothing music when an individual with ASD needs a break, thus helping to relax their minds.
“I am honored to assume the role of Chairman of the Board of the Els for Autism Foundation, a one-of-a-kind autism center of excellence that is transforming lives through its innovation in research and educational and therapeutic programming for clients across the lifespan and the globe. I’m especially humbled that the baton has been passed to me by a man I deeply admire, Marvin Shanken, who has led the Foundation with passion and determination. Together, with our first-rate board, leadership team, and staff, the next phase for the Els for Autism Foundation will be one of breathtaking and impactful growth and expansion.”
– Dr. Michael Alessandri
Founder, Els for Autism Foundation, Publisher & Founder of M.Shanken Communications
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
DR. MARLENE SOTELO
Executive Director, Els for Autism Foundation
YVONNE D’AMELIO
Chief Financial Officer, Els for Autism Foundation
The Advisory Board Members helped us by supporting the Foundation’s events. From the Awe in Autism Events, past summits and conferences, they have all been a fixture of knowledge and talent. Andrew Blitman created a customized painting for the RE-creating RECREATION Conference. Both Andrew Blitman and Connor Sturgis have helped in our fundraising. Mr. Blitman’s artwork has been donated for fundraising and Mr. Sturgis launched a fundraising campaign to raise $100K for Adult Services in the program name of Connor Cares. Finally, in 2022, we had two Autism Spectrum Award Winners and their speeches at the Els for Autism Grand Finale were very inspiring to all attendees.
For the last 5 years, our Advisory Board has served as a source for input and authorities on autism, while also supporting our events in a major way. As Chairman, I am pleased that we have a successful Advisory Board with whom we celebrate the lived-in experiences that are invaluable, and bolster our mission, vision, and values. I could not be happier.
ADVISORY BOARD | 19
18 | BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
GROWTH Transformative
To expand the recreation activities available on The Els Center of Excellence campus, and to provide individuals with autism with a full range of recreation choices, the Board of Directors and Leadership Team have launched a Capital Campaign to support funding a Recreation Complex. The complex will include a Gymnasium, Aquatic Center, and Splash Pad.
Naming opportunities are available and in-kind donations will be accepted. Contact Els for Autism Development Office at development@elsforautism.org or 561-5986197. Your generosity will make a major impact on the lives of people with ASD now and for many years to come.
The Els Center of Excellence campus hosts worldclass, leading-edge programs and services that are accessible to families and caregivers around the world. An Administration Building, Pavilion, and Sensory Arts Garden are on the campus. There is a golf course practice facility, a play court for tennis and basketball, and a courtyard for recreation. The campus also hosts two non-profit, tuition-free, Palm Beach County charter schools, The Learning Center, and The Learning Academy.
Opening in the second half of 2023, The Stoops Family Foundation Adult Services building will be a dedicated space for existing adult programs that are in high demand for individuals with ASD and other related disabilities ages 18+. The building will be outfitted with a commercial kitchen, thanks to the design expertise of Cheney Brothers. The kitchen will be at the heart of a full-service café with drive-through service and indoor and outdoor seating. The café will be open to staff, students, families, and visitors to the campus, showcasing the Foundation’s commitment to inclusion and acceptance of neurodiversity. The café will provide program participants with opportunities to learn and practice the job skills needed to work in the food service industry and will provide employment opportunities for adults with ASD.
Help save a life
Drowning is the #1 cause of death in autism and Florida leads the way in child drownings resulting in death. Kids with ASD are 160 times more likely to experience nonfatal and fatal drowning than their neurotypical peers.
Source: Autism Society Florida
ELS FOR AUTISM
18370 Limestone Creek Road Jupiter, Florida 33458 561-598-6200 elsforautism.org
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20 | TRANSFORMATIVE GROWTH