Grand Finale Booklet - For Proof Only

2023 Golf Challenge GRAND FINALE

Limitless Possibilities

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Welcome FROM THE FOUNDERS

Dear Friends,

As we celebrate another successful Golf Challenge series, we not only reflect back on all that has been accomplished but also envision what the future holds. The new Els for Autism tagline, Where Possibilities Are Endless captures the essence of our dream for what still is yet to come. When we set forth a commitment to create endless possibilities for people with autism and those that care for them, we can transform the future for all.

Shaping the future coincides perfectly with the long-anticipated opening of the Stoops Family Adult Services Building. During the Grand Finale Welcome Party, you will tour the 21,000-square-foot building and experience all the building has to offer, including the full-service café with drive-through service and indoor-outdoor seating.

Open to staff, students, families, and visitors to the campus, the Big Easy Café provides program participants employment opportunities to work in the food service industry. In addition to the café, the on-campus building provides programs to transition-aged students and adults in the high-demand areas of employment services, therapeutic services, day training, recreation, and social programs. The future is bright!

The Recreation Complex will be the next project to shape the future of the campus by providing our clients with a full range of recreational choices. The complex will include a gymnasium, aquatic center, and splash pad and it is the focus of the new Capital Campaign. We were very fortunate to receive a donation from Stanley Black and Decker who has named the gymnasium, however we have more fundraising to do with a groundbreaking target of 2025.

One of the most widely known and influential thinkers on management, Peter Drucker, wrote, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Before 2014, The Els Center of Excellence® campus was 26 acres of Florida scrub. The campus now hosts programs and services that have been created to provide care coordination throughout the lifespan, so families feel a sense of community and belonging. The Foundation shares key learnings with the greater global autism community through direct in-person or telehealth services and published research, ensuring that people around the world have access to best practices.

We thank you for your support of the Els for Autism Golf Challenge. Whether you have supported us for many years or are new this year, we thank you with all our hearts. Together we are shaping a future Where Possibilities Are Endless. It is our road map to becoming the global leader in a world that envisions limitless possibilities for individuals with autism and their families.

With sincere gratitude,

FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR FOUNDER & HONORARY CHAIR FOUNDER

Welcome FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

Dear Friends,

Over the next few days, as you celebrate the conclusion of the Els for Autism Golf Challenge, we share a common goal – to provide quality lifespan services to individuals with autism around the globe. Your generous support of the Golf Challenge allows the Els for Autism team to provide these critical services with the utmost respect for the uniqueness of every individual, family, and community we are able to reach. For your remarkable and steadfast support, I am deeply thankful.

Having served on the Els for Autism board since 2019, I was honored to be appointed the Board Chair in March of this year. As the Executive Director of the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD) for nearly three decades, I have grown our program from one office, three staff, and several hundred clients into a multi-site, multi-disciplinary, multi-cultural network serving over sixteen thousand clients in South Florida. I have a similar vision for Els for Autism. With a first-rate board, excellent leadership team, and skillful staff, the next phase for Els for Autism will be one of impactful growth and expansion.

As Board Chair, my near-term focus is three-fold: (1) enhance overarching board governance while strengthening our foundational organizational structures, (2) strategically grow our board by recruiting a diverse and accomplished group of experts and global community leaders; and (3) expand funding streams to include government appropriations and research grants. The wheels are already in motion with most of these priorities as can be seen in our recent success in receiving a one million-dollar appropriation from the state of Florida for the building of our future state-of-the-art recreation complex on The Els Center of Excellence campus. Your continued support will allow us to achieve more successes like this one.

In August, I spent two days with the Els for Autism team and was impressed by the widespread impact of the Foundation’s work. Els for Autism is truly one-of-a-kind autism “C of Excellence,” transforming lives through innovation in research, education, and therapeutic programming for clients across the lifespan.

My request to each of you attending the Grand Finale this week is to continue supporting the Golf Challenge, while becoming an ambassador of Els for Autism by spreading the word about the Foundation’s positive impact on the global autism community. The world we imagine, where people touched by autism have all the resources and services they need to fulfill their lives, is truly within our reach.

Thankfully,

Dr. Michael Alessandri Board Chair, Els for Autism

ITINERARY

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29th

Uber available for Palm Beach International Airport Pick Up (guests must use redemption code)

2 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Event Registration

(Golden Circle Guests Only)

Venue: Gold Room

MONDAY, OCTOBER 30th

Uber available for Palm Beach International Airport Pick Up (guests must use redemption code)

9:00 a.m. Grand Finale Tournament – Round 1

(Golden Circle Golfing Guest Only)

Venue: Ocean Course at The Breakers

12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Event Registration (All Guests)

Venue: Gold Room

7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Welcome Party (All Guests)

Venue: The Els Center of Excellence

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31st

9:00 a.m. Grand Finale Tournament – Round 2 (Golfing Guest Only)

Venue: Ocean Course at The Breakers

9:00 a.m. Golden Circle VIP Tournament – Round 2 (Golden Circle Golfing Guest Only)

Venue: Bear Lakes Country Club

6:00 p.m. –7:00 p.m. Cocktail Reception (All Guests)

Venue: Mediterranean Ballroom

7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Dinner, Gala Celebration, Auction & Awards Ceremony (All Guests)

Venue: Venetian Ballroom

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1ST

Uber available for Palm Beach International Airport Pick Up (guests must use redemption code)

12:00 p.m. Hotel room check-out

Silent Auction Package Preview

PACKAGE DESCRIPTIONS

Revel In Eco-Luxury While Relaxing at Peninsula Papagayo

This is a captivating journey that promises three nights and four days of pure luxury and natural beauty at the Four Seasons Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo for two! As you step into this coastal paradise, you’re greeted by the elegance that has earned the Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica, the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating for six consecutive years. This is where adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, culinary explorers, and culture lovers unite in a celebration of life’s finest pleasures. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Your golfing journey will be elevated to new heights as you tee off on the Oceans Course at Peninsula Papagayo – an Arnold Palmer-designed course. This 18-hole, par 72 course has earned its place among the “Top 100 Courses Outside the United States” by Golf Digest.

Experience Luxury at Sebonack Golf Club

Immerse yourself in a world of golfing excellence as you and your closest trio of friends indulge in a round of golf at the prestigious Sebonack Golf Club. Situated on 300 acres in Southampton, New York, Sebonack features holes that offer panoramic views of Long Island’s Great Peconic Bay and Cold Spring Pond. Sebonack is a golfing haven where nature’s beauty converges with the challenges of the game. The visual impact of the water vistas competes for the golfer’s eye with the rolling fairways, expansive bunkers, waste dunes, and undulating greens, a true testament to the artistry of the course. Jack Nicklaus and Tom Doak, two designers with dramatically different styles, have used the natural contours and features of the land to create a unique look. The result is that Sebonack looks quite different from its illustrious neighbors and provides a strong golfing challenge for players of all

Discover Cutting-edge Showmanship at Cirque du Soleil

Prepare to be captivated as you and a lucky guest embark on a journey into modern-day art and entertainment. This is your exclusive invitation to experience the largest contemporary circus in the world - Cirque du Soleil! Cirque du Soleil is not just a show; it’s a breathtaking fusion of art, athleticism, and imagination that will leave you spellbound. With a multitude of locations to choose from, you can select the show that resonates with your sense of wonder and adventure. Picture yourself in a world where gravity defies imagination, where acrobats soar through the air with grace and precision, or where storytelling is woven through awe-inspiring performances. Whether you’re drawn to the mystique of Las Vegas, the charm of Chicago, the excitement of New York, or any other mesmerizing location, your Cirque du Soleil experience promises to be unforgettable. It’s a celebration of human creativity and the power of art to inspire, captivate, and transport you to realms beyond your wildest dreams.

Stick Out a Hockey Game!

Get ready to witness the thrill of NHL action up close and personal! You and a lucky friend are in for an unforgettable experience as you will attend any NHL regular-season game of your choice within the 2023 season at one of the 32 NHL stadiums. Whether you want to support your hometown heroes or catch a game featuring your favorite players, the choice is yours. Imagine the excitement of being there in the arena, cheering on your favorite team as they hit the ice, battling it out for victory. Grab your jerseys, bring your enthusiasm, and get ready to be a part of the hockey magic.

SCAN HERE TO BID

Welcome Party

Celebrating the Opening of the Stoops Family Adult Services Building

The Els for Autism team is excited to host the Grand Finale Welcome Party at The Els Center of Excellence campus, where you will get to indulge in the flavors of South Florida. The Welcome Party Craft Beer and Wine Food Pairing experience, hosted by Ernie and Liezl Els, will feature a variety of restaurants, tap houses, and wine bars unique to our local area to give guests a Taste of South Florida. All tasting tables will serve an array of small plates and beverage pairings to enjoy as you unwind under the stars or meander through the brandnew Stoops Family Adult Service Building. If you need a break from the tastings, head to the luxury Vintage Airstream Cigar Lounge to choose your cigar and relax for a while away from the excitement of the evening.

The long-awaited Stoops Family Adult Services Building is a dedicated space for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other related disabilities ages 18+ who have exited the school system. This purpose-built space provides access to essential programs, services, and support needed during the transition to adulthood and throughout life as an adult. As you tour the building, pop into the Sea of Possibilities Microbusiness workshop to get involved and create a custom wine or beer glass memento led by autistic adults in our Adult Day Training program.

The Els for Autism team strives to build stateof-the-art spaces for individuals with ASD. Thanks to contributions from people like you, we can continue to provide access to tailor-fit environments, ensuring endless possibilities for autistic individuals throughout each phase of life.

AUTISM CONSULTATIONS

The Els for Autism transdisciplinary team is offering an optional, free, one-hour autism consultation for Grand Finale attendees. The consultation may not happen on the days of the Grand Finale, but it can be set up as a remote consultation at a later date.

About the consultations:

During the consultation, an Els for Autism clinician will provide a review of your child’s current educational placement, progress at home during activities of daily living, therapeutic intervention plans, and participation in community-based activities.

You will be provided with specific recommendations in the areas of:

• cognitive skills

• language skills

• social communication adaptive skills

• strategies to support behavioral concerns

The needs of your family will be discussed with recommendations offered including:

• caregiver relations

• sibling needs

• extended family concerns

• going out in the community

• traveling as a family

If you did not previously sign up for the autism consultation in the registration process, please contact Jen Nicholas at jennifer.nicholas@elsforautism.org

2023 GOLF CHALLENGE

13TH ANNUAL 2023 Els for Autism Golf Challenge Series

Spearheaded by four-time Major Champion and Els for Autism Founder, the Golf Challenge Series continues to be one of the largest charity-driven, amateur golf tournaments in history.

Congratulations and thank you to the teams who fundraised $15,000 to make it to the Grand Finale and all the teams who have reached a fundraising total of $30,000 and have qualified for the Golden Circle Club.

21,328 Golf Challenge rounds played $3,103,935 raised in 2023 (as of September 19, 2023) $37 million raised to date!

2023 ELS CUP WINNER Tanner's Team

Highest Fundraising Team

$83,788

Team: Gregory Poor and Charles Poor

Regional Event: Bear Lakes Country Club

Honorary Captain: Tanner Poor

This is a new record for the Golf Challenge. Tanner’s Team raised $83,788 this year, topping their 2022 fundraising total of $72,300! Each year they continue to raise the bar on their fundraising support, a well-deserved Els Cup win for Tanner’s Team! Greg Poor not only participates annually in the Golf Challenge, but he recruits other fathers, grandfathers, uncles, nephews, and cousins to engage as well. We express our deepest gratitude for the commitment and patronage of the Poor families.

- Ernie & Liezl Els

2023 RUNNER-UP Lucas' Steps

Second Place Fundraising Team

$35,100

Team: Jim Blood and Tracy Shreckengost

Regional Event: Windsong Farm Golf Club

Honorary Captain: Lucas Stanbrough

This is an amazing family affair! For the past thirteen years, the Team Lucas’ Steps families – Shreckengost – Stanbrough – Scholl – Blood – Jurgens have supported fundraising efforts benefiting Els for Autism. Over this period of time, this amazing extended family team has raised over half-a-million dollars!Team Lucas’ Steps shares the same vision as Els for Autism, where we envision a world of limitless possibilities for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families. We are truly passionate about supporting people touched by autism. We sincerely thank Team Lucas’ Steps for their unwavering support.

- Ernie & Liezl Els

Highest Fundraising Teams

ROLL OF HONOR

2022

Team: Tanner’s Team

Players: Gregory Poor and Charles Poor

Funds raised: $72,300

Honorary Captain: Tanner Poor

2021 Team: Lucas’ Steps

Players: Jordan Jurgens and Hunter Scholl

Funds raised: $67,383

Honorary Captain: Lucas Stanbrough

2020 Team: Lucas’ Steps

Players: Jim Blood and Dan Stanbrough

Funds raised: $45,280

Honorary Captain: Lucas Stanbrough

2019 Team: Tanner’s Team

Players: Gregory and Charles Poor

Funds raised: $53,079

Honorary Captain: Tanner Poor

2018 Team: Tanner’s Team

Players: Gregory and Charles Poor

Funds raised: $52,481

Honorary Captain: Tanner Poor

2017 Team: Tanner’s Team Too!

Players: Gregory Poor and Charles Poor

Funds raised: $51,208

Honorary Captain: Tanner Poor

2016

Team: Ohrstrom/Barrett

Players: Ken Ohrstrom and Jack Barrett

Funds raised: $61,300

Honorary Captain: Manny Malaret

2015 Team: Lucas’ Steps

Players: Steve Sheppard and Tim Shreckengost

Funds raised: $58,165

Honorary Captain: Lucas Stanbrough

2014 Team: Felipe Leao

Players: Sergio Leao and Artur Tavares

Funds raised: $46,175

Honorary Captain: Felipe Leao

2013 Team: Lucas’ Steps

Players: Steve Sheppard and Tim Shreckengost

Funds raised: $46,322.25

Honorary Captain: Lucas Stanbrough

2012 Team: Payton McGuire

Players: John McGuire and Charlie Cameron

Funds raised: $67,500

Honorary Captain: Payton McGuire

2011 Team: White & Marcus

Players: Mark White and Justin Marcus

Funds raised: $50,284

Honorary Captain: Ben Els

GRAND FINALE PROGRAM

2023 Host Courses, Chairs, & Volunteers

Bear Lakes Country Club

Chairs: Greg Poor, Raj Krishnasamy, Sean Daigle, & RJ Bibby

Volunteers: Jim Williams, Wende Foster

Streamsong Blue

Chairs: Ben Crouch, Eric Distelhurst, Scott Franzen, & Colin Meisinger

The Mirabel Club

Chairs: Pete Brawerman, Chris Lowe, DJ Paoni, & Tony Paoni

Volunteers: Melissa Knourek, Hanna Lysaker & Liza Sinani

The Golf Club of Georgia

Chairs: Kevin Hester & Jeff Harvey

Volunteers: Angel Azat & Denise Cunningham

Windsong Farm Golf Club

Chairs: Craig Davis & Brian Moores

Volunteers: Pam Sheedy, Tessa Davis, Cindy Nollette, & Monte Amundson

Philadelphia Country Club

Chairs: Dave Spencer, Frank Wheeler, Jim Reagan, & Mike Morgan

Volunteers: Angel Azat, Mel Knourek

Hamilton Farm Golf Club

Chairs: Amy Schulz, Mike Morini, & Steve Peck

Volunteers: Angel Azat & Kathy O’Brien

Aliso Viejo Country Club

Chairs: Mike Morini, Lori Rosana, & Arturo Lopez

Volunteers: Mel Knourek

Conway Farms Golf Club

Chairs: DJ Paoni, Joe Rainwater, & Jeffrey Cesare

Volunteers: Stacey Taborelli, Cathy Citarelli & Anna Panszczyk

The Club at Snoqualmie Ridge

Chairs: Bill Hubbard & Matt Laukaitis

Volunteers: RJ Laukaitis, Hailey Parent, Jerry & Lisa Nicholas

Wethersfield Country Club

Chairs: Donald Allan & Gary Gauba

Volunteers: Eve Marie Lynch, Angel Azat, Teri Cousino & AJ Cullan

CordeValle Golf Club

Chairs: Donald Allan, Gary Gauba, John McGee, & Mike Rich

Volunteers: Mel Knourek, Renee Ernst & Richard Caballero

Point O' Woods Golf & Country Club

Chairs: Brian Smith, Mark Schermers, & Sean Mitchell

Volunteers: Heidi Pryor & Kelly White

Baltimore Country Club

Chairs: Greg Petraetis, Jerry Demuro, Mark Ferrer, Mark Palomba, Steve Peck

Volunteers: Angel Azat & Kathy O’Brien

The Clubs of Prestonwood: The Hills Course

Chairs: Michael May & Robert Stephens

Volunteers: Angel Azat & Mel Knourek

COMMUNITY PARTNERS & Ernie Els #GameON Autism® Golf

The Els for Autism Foundation is committed to partnering with like-minded autism organizations at each Golf Challenge regional event. Organizations that are local to the communities we visit are invited to attend our regional events to further promote their mission and goals. Els for Autism provides a few opportunities for involvement as either a Giveback Partner, Golf Provider (clinic host), or Autism Partner (clinic participants).

Giveback Partners will have the opportunity to attend the event, promote their organization, and/or sell products created by their clients. The Foundation also hosts an Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf Clinic at select locations of the Golf Challenge regional event Series. Each clinic is hosted by a local golf or recreation-based organization that completes an online training course to become an Official Program Provider for the golf program. In addition to the clinic host, we also invite an Autism Partner, which is a local non-profit, who brings clients to participate. This clinic offers participants a one-hour orientation to golf, specialized for individuals on the autism spectrum. Our goal with these clinics is to leave a mark on the city by giving local autism organizations a new activity to enjoy that is designed for their clients.

2023 Partners

Bear Lakes Clinic

Official Program Provider: Els for Autism Recreation Department

Clinic Participants: Students from The Learning Academy

The Golf Club of Georgia Clinic

Official Program Provider: Georgia State Golf Association (GSGA)

Clinic Participants: Members of the GSGA Adaptive Golf Program

Philadelphia Country Club Clinic

Official Program Provider: The First Tee of Philadelphia

Clinic Participants: Clients of Project Elijah Empowering Autism

Windsong Farm Golf Club Clinic & Giveback

Official Program Provider: The First Tee of Minnesota

Clinic Participants: Students and Graduates of Minnesota Independence College & Community

Giveback Partner: Minnesota Independence College and Community

The Club at Snoqualmie Ridge Clinic

Official Program Provider: The First Tee of Greater Seattle

Clinic Participants: Clients of The Trellis Center

Wethersfield Country Club Giveback

Giveback Partner: FOCUS Center for Autism

Baltimore Country Club Clinic

Official Program Provider: Els for Autism Foundation

Clinic Participants: Kennedy Krieger Institute

The Clubs of Prestonwood Clinic

Official Program Provider: NeuroDiscovery Center of North Texas

Clinic Participants: NeuroDiscovery Center of North Texas

Point O’ Woods Golf & Country Club Giveback

Giveback Partner: Lighthouse Autism Center

For the last two years, First Tee - Greater Seattle had the privilege to host an Els for Autism clinic at The Club at Snoqualmie Ridge. We are thrilled to see participants, coaches and parents smiles as they move through activities, high-fiving, fist-bumping, and celebrating along the way! This event is unique for First Tee and one we look forward to hosting each year. For one hour, we get to host fun and engaging activities and create memories that will last a lifetime for all. We can’t wait to be back next year!

AFFILIATE EVENT HIGHLIGHT BULL RUN OPEN

by Chung Kim, PR Director, Raspberry Management

The Bull Run Open golf tournament began as a philanthropic endeavor to unite our golf community and support charitable organizations. In 2018, Michael Wyant became the golf course superintendent of Bull Run and introduced our staff to Els for Autism through his love for his cousin, Raymond. When the club learned about Raymond and Michael's support for Els for Autism, the Bull Run Open took on a different energy. The more everyone learned about the cause, the deeper the interest grew in helping the lives of people with autism and those who care for them.

Since its inception, the 18-hole event has sold out yearto-year with sponsorships from club owners, vendors, members, and staff. Leading up to the event, golfers round up their green fees to donate to the cause. Event players fill the clubhouse with blue attire to support World Autism Month and the post-round banquet is full of motivational conversations on how everyone can do more. "The Bull Run Open brings together our entire organization," said, Michael Tate, Bull Run General Manager, "the staff is dedicated to supporting Els for Autism and the community reciprocates that enthusiasm with their participation and generosity. It comes full circle and is the highlight event for Bull Run every year."

Every individual with autism deserves to be seen, heard, included, be a productive member of society, given support, love, and understanding. Raymond makes such a positive contribution to this world, and we are forever grateful for him. Thank you for all that you do for the autism community and their families.

- Lisa Janicke, Raymond’s mother

AFFILIATE EVENTS

TOTAL RAISED $362,053.20 (as of September 19, 2023)

An Els for Autism Affiliate Event is a volunteer-run fundraiser that includes Els for Autism Foundation as a benefiting charity of the event. The event can take place at any time and any location around the world. While you may immediately think of a golf tournament, we have seen a wide variety of events over the years. From concerts, to pet shows, to 5K run/walks, to fashion shows, we welcome any and all exciting event ideas!

Each Affiliate Event host (an individual, family, company, organization, etc.) is responsible for the event’s program, fundraising efforts, activities, registrations, and volunteers. This allows the event host to have creative control of the event all while giving back to a great cause.

CELEBRATING OUR 2023 Honorary Captains

We are proud to celebrate children, teens, and adults around the world who are affected by autism – we call them our Honorary Captains. Our Honorary Captains are the inspiration for teams to take the challenge and make a difference for people touched by autism who face the daily realities that autism brings.

GRAND FINALE SPONSORS

NATIONAL SPONSORS

ORGANIZING SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

Accenture

Amazon Web Services

Ameri100

Answerthink

ASAR Digital

Auritas

Avvale

Bank of America

Blackline

Capgemini

Centerview Partners

Cognitus

Evercore

EY

FloQast

Grant Thornton

IBM

KPMG Microsoft

Morgan Stanley

Navisite

NHLPA

PwC

Rizing

SAP

Sapphire Systems

SmartShift

Syntax Systems

Teneo

The Boddiford-Koras

Wealth Management Group

at Morgan Stanley

The DeMuro Family

Tricentis

TruU

Wellsfargo

Vass

HOLE SPONSORS

Applexus Technologies

Approyo

As You Are

Capital Investment Advisors

Crave InfoTech

Discount Tire

Emergys

IBM

iBoss

IFS

IJL Real Estate Group

Kearney

Macrospect

Navisite

NHLPA

PJT Partners

PNC Bank

SAP

Syntax Systems

Tricentis

World Wide Technology Inc

WTA

SERIES SPONSORS

TITANIUM SPONSOR

PRESENTING SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSOR

BRONZE SPONSORS

HOLE SPONSORS

ERNIE ELS #GAMEON AUTISM® INTERNATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

One of the many ways we are transforming lives is through recreation. Through the Ernie Els #GameON Autism programs, we are changing the culture of sports and recreation. People with autism are beginning to feel included and welcomed to participate in recreational activities, go to public places, and even take lessons or group classes with their local sports professionals. Utilizing our Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf program, we held our second annual International Golf Tournament in July of this year.

Competing countries included the United States, Canada, South Africa, Ghana, and the United Kingdom.

It’s an abolute delight to be able to showcase the global nature of golf and more importantly the Ernie Els #GameON Autism® Program to Pentland School. The progress every student has made throughout has been exceptional. For the students to know that they are participating alongside a global community has helped build a sense of belonging and importance to recreational activity.

- Cae Menai-Davis, Team UK Director/Founder at The Golf Trust

Els for Autism Canada

RECOGNITION

Els for Autism Canada became a registered Canadian Charity in 2013. The Els for Autism Golf Challenge began with 3 events in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal fundraising $407,000 in revenue and $153,000 in grant giving.

Since Inception a total of 46 Golf Challenge events have been executed with a total of $5.2M revenue generated and $2.3M grants given.

Event profits stay in the Province of the events and are used to support worthy autism spectrum disorder (ASD) organizations. To qualify for a grant, the organization must be a registered Canadian Charity. All grants must be used for engagement and support programs, not capital expenditures. Funds raised may also be used to disseminate Els for Autism Foundation programs and services and to support our global outreach mission.

Els for Autism Canada supports programs outside of grant giving. The Ernie Els #GameON Autism programs and clinics have been conducted in three Canadian provinces to date. Additionally, the U Can Employ™ initiative has been designed to guide businesses to successfully hire, support, and retain employees with ASD while insuring a successful long-term outcome for both the employee and employer.

Michael Forbes $50,000 Hole-In-One Prize

Els for Autism Canada hosting the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf Clinic

Affiliate Event at Mill Woods Golf Club $12,000 Donation

David Christensen, Andy Cobbold, Randall Shapkin, and Gary Chiste

ELS FOR AUTISM CANADA

2023 HIGHLIGHTS

Five events, $585,000 revenue, planned grant giving $300,000+

MONTREAL

Returning to Montreal after five years, the inaugural event was held at Golf Saint-Raphaël. First time event Chairs - toutes nos felicitations!

VANCOUVER

We celebrated 11 years of the Golf Challenge in Vancouver and marked five years at Richmond Country Club.

TORONTO

Another 11-year celebration for Golf Challenge in Toronto with three years at Angus Glen Golf Club. Els for Autism Canada also celebrated the first ever women’s team winners. Congratulations to Andrea Kiss and Catherine Perry Robertson!

CALGARY

2023 marked, 10 years for Golf Challenge in Calgary, the inaugural event was held at The Links of GlenEagles. Els for Autism Canada, first $50,000 ‘Hole in One Prize’!

AFFILIATE EVENT

The event was held at Mill Woods Golf Club, five years of continued support for Els for Autism Canada.

THE LINKS OF GLENEAGLES

We ar e a 5001c3 3 Non-pr ofit employing g adults with Special Needs. We r ecycle br oken

We ar e a 5001c3 3 Non-pr ofit employing g addults with Special Needs. We r ecycle br oken

We ar e a 5001c3 3 Non-pr ofit employing g addults with Special Needs. We r ecycle br oken

Hockey sticks s into unique gifts

Hockey sticks into unique gifts

succh as: BBQ Sets, Golf

succh as: BBQ Sets, Golf

Br ushes annd Snow Br ushes.

Br ushes and Snow Br ushes.

Hockey sticks s into unique gifts such as: BBQ Sets, Golf Br ushes annd Snow Br ushes.

We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit employing adults with special needs. We recycle broken hockey sticks into unique gifts such as:

• BBQ Sets

• Golf Brushes

• Snow Brushes

Donations & Purchases

www.requipd.com

267-679-8831

To learn more about our Mission click on QR code below

To learn more about our Mission click on QR code below

To learn more about our mission, scan the QR code:

To learn more about our Mission click on QR code below

To learn more about our Mission click on QR code below

AUTISM SPECTRUM AWARD 2023 Winner

The Autism Spectrum Award honors an individual with autism spectrum disorder who has shined a positive light on autism through their character, positive attitude, and contribution.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2023 WINNER Andrew Blitman

Andrew Blitman, who earned his degree in Marine Conservation Science & Policy from the University of Miami, is a local from South Florida who served on the UM-NSU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities constituency board from 2011 to 2017. In July 2015, he was invited to present his master's thesis at the ESRI User Conference in San Diego, and he did so, highlighting his research on billfish fishery management plans in the Caribbean.

He currently works as a tutor and mentor for Firewall Centers. He is the author of fifteen books: including 5 comprehensive poetry anthologies, three illustrated poetry books written and drawn from the perspective of animals as well as a hardcover 5th Anniversary Edition that contains all 3 of them in one single book, and a memoir about his December 2012 Birthright trip to Israel, as well as a "Book of Pun-ishment" that contains over 700 original jokes. In early 2022, he created a portfolio book that contains over 300 of his original paintings. His most recent anthology is called "The Blue Book of Poetry and Life", and was also introduced in 2022.

To read his works, you can visit his website www.andrewblitman.com

Welcome FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dear Friends,

As we close out another year of our annual Golf Challenge Series to celebrate your success in fundraising to help transform the lives of people with autism, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support of Els for Autism.

This year has been one of great excitement and achievement for our organization. We kicked off 2023 by hosting the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation at our center, bringing in members of the Florida Senate, House of Representatives, city mayors, school board members, and other public officials along with over 200 new visitors to The Els Center of Excellence. We then secured the largest multi-year grant in our foundation's history to support our programs and a new building for adults on the spectrum. In the spring, we successfully delivered our 4th Autism Innovations and Global Impact Conference, sharing best practices in the field of recreation as supplemental intervention for people with autism, which included participants from 6 countries. To round out the first quarter with a big bow, we received a generous 5-year, $5 million pledge from Stanley Black & Decker for our future specialized recreation complex followed by the June confirmation of a million-dollar appropriation from the state of Florida to get the project started.

The opening of the Stoops Family Adult Services Building on August 29th brought new opportunities for adults with autism to keep learning, connecting, and living life to the fullest. The new building houses the Big Easy ™ Café by Ernie Els to serve as a living vocational lab to teach food industry skills and employ people with autism. It will also serve breakfast and lunch to staff, clients, teachers, students, parents, and visitors to the center. We further extended our dedication to helping individuals with autism find employment by launching the U Can Employ™ initiative to train and support businesses in starting a companywide program to recruit, hire, onboard, and retain employees with autism.

We have served over 42,000 people worldwide this year through direct in-person services, telehealth, online learning, awareness activities, and more. Our reach is far beyond the beauty of Jupiter, Florida. Our reach extends to over 27 countries to date, bringing us closer to our goal of becoming a world leader in the field of autism set forth by our newly adopted 5-year strategic plan. None of this would be possible without the incredible generosity and commitment of our families, donors, friends, and colleagues.

As we reflect on this year, I am reminded that we are in this together. Even in changing times, you continue to stand beside us as we work to fulfill our mission of transforming people with autism by creating endless possibilities through our programs and services, and our delivery of hope for the future. By holding hands along the way, we ensure that no one has to walk alone. Thank you for continuing this journey with us. With your support, we are truly transforming lives.

With gratitude,

Marlene Sotelo Executive Director Els for Autism

State of Florida Million-Dollar Appropriation for the Recreation Complex

Stoops Family Adult Services Building Grand Opening, August 2023

Hosting the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation, January 2023

EXPANDING RECREATION

as a platform for other therapeutic interventions

Research proves that participation in recreational programs has shown extensive benefits for children with autism. It can reduce behavioral and emotional disorders, aid in developing social skills, forming relationships, enhancing physical and mental health, and supporting the formation of children's interests.

Stanley Black & Decker, a leading global provider of tools, equipment, and services for the construction, industrial, and manufacturing industries, has pledged $5 million over five years to support the capital campaign to build the Recreation Complex on The Els Center of Excellence campus.

The Recreation Complex will allow us to expand our programs and to provide an indoor space during inclement weather. The complex will include the autism-friendly Stanley Black & Decker Gymnasium, an aquatic center, and a splash pad. Drowning is the number one cause of death for children with autism, and a specialized aquatic center for people with autism will allow for water safety and swimming instruction.

We are grateful for Stanley Black & Decker's commitment to supporting the autism community and helping to transform the lives of people with autism and their families. The gymnasium and aquatic center will provide a safe and inclusive space for individuals with autism to engage in physical activity and learn life-saving water safety skills.

-Dr. Marlene Sotelo, Executive Director, Els for Autism

Naming Opportunities for the aquatic center and splash pad are available as are In-kind donations, contact Els for Autism Development Office at development@elsforautism.org or 561-598-6197.

AQUATIC CENTER

SPLASH PAD

PRELIMINARY RENDERINGS

LIFESPAN SERVICES

Holding

hands with people with autism and those that care for them every step of the way

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 school-age years. We continue the journey with those we serve by providing a variety of evidence-based therapeutic and recreational services, through adulthood, not only for the individual with autism and related disabilities but also for the entire family.

to months 12 years of age 7 & YEARS 18

School-Age

Older

SERVICES SERVICES SERVICES

diagnostics, therapeutic interventions (speechlanguage therapy, behavior therapy, occupational therapy), education (early intervention, parent training), and recreation services

therapeutic interventions, mental health counseling, education, and recreation services

therapeutic interventions including mental health counseling, speech-language, occupational therapy, education (Adult Day Training Program, employment programs, selfadvocacy training, independent living training), social groups, and recreation services

LIFESPAN LIFESPAN SERVICES to

months 12 years of age 7 Chase's Story

When Chase was nearly three years old, his parents observed some alarming delays which included not making eye contact, not speaking, eating randomly, walking tip-toed, and not cuddling. Once diagnosed with autism, Chase has been making significant progress. Now five years old, Chase receives ABA, speech-language therapy, and occupational therapy from the Els for Autism clinical team. He loves swimming but his favorite activity is the sensory gym.

His mother, Serra, said, “Chase was indifferent to strangers and the world before, now he is more engaged and seems happier.” She added, “I’m positive for my son to make a lasting impact on this world with the help of the services he is receiving from the Els for Autism team.”

LIFESPAN SERVICES School-Age Moraine's Story

Meet our social butterfly, Moraine. She is eleven years old and loves attention. Moraine enjoys being the little helper at home and at school. She loves riding her bike, swimming, doing puzzles, going to the playground, and playing silly games with her little brother. She is always happy to go to the grocery store and restaurants with her family.

Moraine is nonverbal and uses a speech device to communicate. She is very opinionated at times about what she wants, and she will let everyone around her know. She has severe apraxia and fine motor tasks are very difficult for her. Consequently, she does not like to participate in arts and crafts.

A pediatric neurologist diagnosed Moraine on her second birthday. She did not speak despite starting speech therapy 6 months prior. Her mom knew something was not right when Moraine missed early developmental milestones like waving and pointing.

Els for Autism staff have been providing services to Moraine for over five years. The services include ABA, speech-language therapy, and occupational therapy. She participates in camp and recreational activities as well (kickball, music, etc.).

Parents with children that have autism or other developmental disabilities recognize that typically more resources are available to preschool children. What happens when the children get older is also very important. Els for Autism staff knows that there needs to be a larger and longer focus across the lifespan, to support individuals and their families throughout their entire journey.

As Moraine gets older, she and her family will continue to receive services and build their social network on The Els Center of Excellence campus as a member of the autism community for many years to come.

LIFESPAN SERVICES & YEARS 18 Older

Foster's Story

As a toddler, Foster was not meeting developmental milestones. He was not walking or talking. His parents were told by his pediatrician that Foster was okay and that it was normal for boys to meet developmental milestones late. As parents, they decided to be proactive. Foster started receiving occupational therapy and speech therapy by the age of two. With the support and encouragement of his therapists, tests, and evaluations were completed, and he was diagnosed with autism before turning 3.

Foster turned 26 this past June. He attends the Els for Autism Adult Day Training (ADT) program, and he receives speech-language therapy twice a week. These services have impacted Foster, positively. ADT has helped with social skills, as well as training in the community. Speech-language therapy has helped Foster use his words/ conversations, to be more appropriate for the situation he is in.

He also participates in many recreation programs including yoga, golf, tennis, and art. Foster enjoys sports activities, and his parents have seen much improvement since he started. He is limited because of his fine motor skills. Foster enjoys participating with the group, and he tries hard to improve his skills. We have seen the most independent skill improvement in golf and tennis. He loves to share his progress with his father.

A really fun fact about Foster, he loves pickles! His grandmother gave him a hamburger with pickles on it when he was a toddler. He picked the pickles off, and he enjoyed eating everyone. When Foster was able to communicate, he started asking for pickles. His mom tells us, he eats pickles every day. His parents started taking him to a large pickle fest in Pittsburg, PA called Picklesburgh, in 2021. There he enjoys pickle soda, pickle cotton candy, pickle ice cream, etc. Lucky for us, when he showed up for his photo to be taken in the Sensory Arts Garden, he was wearing his pickle tee shirt!

The Els Center of Excellence is not only a place where Foster can participate and enjoy the activities that are offered, but it also is where he can continue to learn and develop new skills that will help him be more independent in his journey of life.

- Foster's Mom

Nassau, The Bahamas

"Turning Challenges into Achievement"

Last year when the Grand Finale was held in Nassau, The Bahamas, we introduced the attendees to our partner, Blairwood Academy. Blairwood Academy is designed to serve elementary and high school students who learn best when given individualized attention in a small school environment. They serve a wide range of students including those with learning disabilities and autism spectrum disorder.

During the 2022 Grand Finale, Els for Autism staff conducted an initial overview and observation for the replication of the foundation’s Work Experience (WE) program. Post Grand Finale support was provided by Els for Autism staff via telehealth to succeed in the implementation of the WE program. The Foundation’s support and guidance led to Blairwood Academy’s success in engaging several businesses in Nassau as WE host sites. During the WE program, students from Blairwood engaged in hands-on learning and developed skills critical for employment. Replication of the WE program underscored the inclusion of transition-age youth with disabilities in employment throughout Nassau for the first time ever.

Over this past summer, Els for Autism recreation team had the pleasure of welcoming three students, a teacher, and the Vice Principal, Shemeca Moss, to participate in therapeutic services and the Movin’ and Grovin’ Summer Camp. The camp included introductory recreational activities including golf, yoga/fitness, art, music, kickball, and offsite field trips. The Els for Autism team, skilled in recreation, speech-language intervention, behavior analysis, occupational therapy, special education, music therapy, and sports/fitness worked with the Blairwood Academy staff to incorporate social, motor, communication, sensory, and regulatory skills into their educational and recreation programs offered in The Bahamas. "Participating in the summer camp has been a most gratifying experience for both our students and teachers" said, Shemeca Moss.

The U Can Employ initiative is a significant step in creating a more inclusive workplace, as investors and shareholders increasingly recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing. An inclusive workplace not only addresses ESG, but it also impacts a company’s bottom line, increasing revenue, and reducing costs.

This groundbreaking initiative will provide direct training, support, and consultation to large and small companies interested in recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and retaining employees with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Furthermore, this program will be accessible to companies of all sizes through varying tiered membership services, including free access to downloadable tools and webinars. The Els for Autism team works directly with HR personnel, hiring managers, and supervisors, to ensure a successful outcome.

The first U Can Employ pilot site launched with Next Level Distribution, a consumer electronics and 12V product distributor in June of this year. A second pilot with SBA Communications Corporation, a leading independent owner and operator of wireless communications infrastructure, including towers, buildings, rooftops, distributed antenna systems (DAS), and small cells, is set to launch in the fall. The specialized group of consultants, powered by the Els for Autism team, will work closely with both companies to provide consultation to their HR team to recruit, hire, onboard, and retain employees with ASD and related disabilities.

For more information, please contact ucanemploy@elsforautism.org

Research has found that companies already employing individuals with disabilities report:

89% higher retention rate

72% increase in employee productivity

28% increase in profitability

Source: APSE

ELS FOR AUTISM WE CONNECT Mentor Program

in Collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS)

The Els for Autism Work Experience (WE) program is for adults with autism spectrum disorder and other related disabilities ages 18+ who have exited the school system. The program is designed for those interested in career exploration or who have a goal of paid employment. During the program, participants engage in hands-on learning and develop skills relating to employment.

The CONNECT Mentor program was initiated in 2018 to help facilitate meaningful relationships to empower young adults with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities through shared connection, inclusive activities, and professional development seminars.

Taking the WE and CONNECT Mentor programs further, Els for Autism staff has collaborated with Amazon Web Services, Inc. (AWS) to create the WE CONNECT Mentor Program. This program, kicked off in January 2023, with the goal of matching mentors from AWS with mentees enrolled in the WE program. The aim of the program is to foster and support a mentoring relationship during and after the WE program. Thus far, 32 mentors have indicated interest in the program. Of these 32, 13 have followed through with the application/ volunteer process. Of the 13 mentors, seven mentors actively meeting with their mentees. The support of a mentor has been a positive enhancement to both the mentor and mentees in our WE program.

Our learnings to date have shown that the addition of a mentorship program promotes positivity in our clients and their mentors. While we have not yet seen the overall long-term effect of the program, we feel it is essential to continue offering the WE CONNECT Mentor Program to our clients and to continue tracking the positive and long-lasting impact of the program.

Coming into the mentorship program, I was looking forward to helping support someone with entering and navigating the workplace. What makes it even more rewarding, and fun is getting to know such a genuinely thoughtful, caring, and self-reflective person and to have a small part in making a positive impact in her life. I feel super grateful for the chance to build such a joyful relationship with my mentee.

- AWS Mentor

Bringing 39 Years of Excellence

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