About the Fund
Established in 2009 by World Golf Hall of Famer and four-time Major Champion Ernie Els, his wife, Liezl, and honorary chair Marvin R. Shanken, Els for Autism® is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their caregivers through comprehensive lifespan services and collaborative partnerships. The Els’ son, Ben, is impacted by ASD, which affects 1 in 36 children in the U.S. Els for Autism has provided services to autistic individuals, families, and professionals in over 34 countries around the globe.
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From the moment of diagnosis throughout the school years and into adulthood, the team at Els for Autism provides lifespan programs and services in three primary impact areas: Early Intervention & Education, Recreation, and Adult Services. Early intervention services change the developmental trajectories of individuals with autism by maximizing their developmental potential. Recreation activities produce emotions of achievement, enjoyment, and promote inclusion, self-confidence, and increased quality of life. Adult services continue the necessary services individuals need when exiting the school system by fostering independence and a sense of purpose in each person.
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Every day, more than 50 individuals participate in our programs and receive services from our team at The Els Center of Excellence® campus. In Jupiter, Florida, we have created a haven for individuals with ASD and their caregivers to receive services across all ages. We continue building relationships with the community to provide services in our backyard; however, our reach is limitless.
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To learn more, visit the Els for Autism website here:Â www.elsforautism.org
