2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit

ASD Adult Achievement Center

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Education, Educational Services, Job Training, Vocational Rehabilitation

Mission: Our mission is to provide an environment where adults with ASD (autism spectrum disorder) can come together to develop skills, strategies and solutions that promote greater achievement and independence.

Community Stories

60 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

1

AL93, Client Served

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

ASD Adult Achievement Center has been completely life changing for me in boosting my confidence and leaving me with skills I can apply in both professional and personal relationships! Each staff member is genuinely interested in the growth of each student as an individual and goes above and beyond to clarify if students need more information during lessons. They offer many helpful programs here, and so far I have attended Self Advocacy, PEERS and VIP Works. The class sizes are also kept small which makes learning a lot easier. They have taught me how to navigate advocating for myself and how to find the resources I need to be successful for job interviews, in the workplace and in my personal relationships. I have also learned the skills to advertise for real businesses while also getting paid! I am blessed to have found this place and would highly recommend it.

JT4550 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/16/2023

I enrolled in the ASD Achievement Center during the summer, and I can say without a doubt it's been an incredible helping hand in terms of aiding me in the aspects of trying to get a job, help me to learn and manage new independent skills on my own, and be both supporting and fun as I learned new computer programs as well as real topics that we struggle with on a daily basis as people. The staff are very welcoming and down to earth, communication is very real and not corporate, I'd say this program is very helpful for those who are on the spectrum, the workers have been very patient and understanding of my strengths and weaknesses and have helped me become a better individual moving forward, thanks for the guidance ASD, I hope I'll go far in the future!

AA1337 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/16/2023

This experience gave me what I needed to help me succeed. I learned how to accept myself for how I am with a supportive community around me. They also helped me with my resume and mock interviews, aiding me in getting a volunteer position. I learned more about how my disability was just a piece of me and my friends helped solidify that belief as well. I'm quite proud of how much I've changed this past summer. I cannot recommend this enough, the ASD center may be just what you or your child needs. The courses I took were VIPworks, self-advocacy, and Career Success Shop.

KR1996 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/16/2023

I took part in the Self-Advocacy program with Videsh during Summer 2023. His leadership and ability to have autistic peers remain engaged in discussion is unparalleled. He has helped us piece together fragmented parts of ourselves. This course is much more than identifying a disability; it is about growing in our capabilities. For all this and more, I am grateful!

Previous Stories
1

Client Served

Rating: 5

04/19/2023

This center/employment services vendor has been far more helpful in assisting me on my particular job journey than the one I previously interacted with. I wish this center and its services were available to every student and seemingly stuck/scared young Aspie in the United States. Thank you to Uma Patel and the three interns who guided me in the Spring 2023 version of their "Career Success Workshop", for dispelling many myths and fears I maintained about the job market which have kept me from fully putting my best self out there to employers.

jonb1411 Client Served

Rating: 4

08/16/2023

All in all, this non-profit has been immensely helpful and an amazing resource for all my idiosyncrasies being mildly autistic. They taught me very important things that I never learned in public school. I'm hoping this will benefit me in finding full time employment in the near future.

Chozo Client Served

Rating: 5

08/16/2023

I went here for some classes on social and work skills and I'm really satisfied with what I learned here. I picked up a variety of helpful skills that'll certainly help me later down the line. They were also very accommodating and understanding of me being autistic there. I was afraid it was gonna be aba therapy all over again but the people here are genuinely really cool and helpful.

marcald Client Served

Rating: 5

08/08/2023

I have had fun and learned about meet up apps. I also got to learn about connecting with other people.

1

JustHailey24 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/08/2023

My aunt and uncle signed me up for this and at first I was terrified, but after a few lessons the welcoming and supportive environment and the things I was learning really had me get out of my comfort zone while even looking forward to going every week. I 100% recommended this course for anyone looking to gain confidence in social skills.

Jogalarza190 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/04/2023

I initially came across this organization through an Internship program with UCF at the start of 2023. I have been volunteering with the organization since then and have had nothing but great experiences with the team, participants, and the organization as a whole. Having a sibling with autism myself has made the work I have done with the ASD Adult Achievement Center that much more meaningful to me. The participants are all incredible in their own ways and I have greatly enjoyed the time I have spent with them and getting to know them. Being apart of this team has been such a tremendous help to the growth of my skills, abilities, and experiences overall and I am so grateful to be continuing my work with them through the remainder of this year.

1

zmckenzie Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/03/2023

Volunteering with this nonprofit organization has been immensely rewarding. They care about their employees and participants so much. They ensure to provide support for everybody involved with their organization and it's been amazing to see how much growth has been achieved at ASD Achievement Center. Their welcoming and warm environment makes you feel like family. I have gained so many new skills from this organization; it's so fulfilling to watch each participant flourish after taking the programs. I encourage everyone to take a look at the programs they provide!

1

SY.K Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/03/2023

I did a voluntary internship in this organization and it was a very rewarding and valuable experience for myself too. The center has tried to provide core programs for developing soft and hard skills for ASD Adult Individuals and I think it is very awesome. I am rooting for you ASD Adult Achievement Center!

1

CaleighB Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

06/20/2023

I have received so much value from serving this GREAT Non-Profit for one and a half years. The organization truly cares for the participant's and their outcome in their independent lives. The team treats each student as a true individual and tailors to their needs. The center has programs in a class-room setting and one-on-one for a full-spectrum of training and care! I have seen so many participants grow in our programs to reach their own ideals because of such an amazing team supporting them.

If you are thinking about joining ASD Adult Achievement Center, this is your sign. You CAN attain your goals and this team can equip you with the tools you need to reach them!!!

1

Amber.h Volunteer

Rating: 5

04/19/2023

I've been helping out as an intern for a while. From my experience I've seen how passionate he staff is about helping the clients who come in for the classes. They each always try their best to make sure every student gets what they need out of their program. They care about the progress of their students. They also care about their volunteers through their expressions of gratitude they often offer.

1

ry426576 Volunteer

Rating: 5

04/19/2023

I have been an intern for ASD Adult Achievement Center for the Spring 2023 semester and it has been an incredible experience. The work environment is welcoming and prioritizes itself on the benefit of its students. Classes are structured well to maximize student’s engagement and everyone involved in the learning process is diligent and driven.

1

marvl Volunteer

Rating: 5

04/19/2023

I really enjoyed volunteering here, I got learn a lot from both the instructors and students and I think it’s an amazing learning environment with lots of collaboration and moments where students receive one on one help. In the career success shop I got to learn a lot myself about the job industry and process for getting hired, which I think anyone can benefit of. The programs are very educational and hands on so I definitely recommend it for both volunteering and attending as a student!

1

seva.ruth Volunteer

Rating: 5

01/04/2023

I started as an intern at the ASD Adult Achievement Center and found myself drawn to this positive environment. The center itself is beautiful, always decorated for holidays, birthdays, and seasons, and the walls adorned with artistic, colorful paintings. But, more importantly, the center is beautiful on the inside due to the passion and vision that the CEO, staff, and employees pour into the organization. The ASD Adult Achievement Center helps ASD adult students to grow in their hard skills and soft skills through over ten different programs that target independent living skills, self-advocacy, job readiness, graphic design, and social skills. But more than just providing instruction, the staff and program facilitators take sincere interest and care in partnering with every single student who enters the doors. By meeting one-on-one with students, recognizing their strengths and helping them cope with challenges, and getting to know their unique interests, passions, and dreams, the staff and interns here invest in every single student. The learning that happens here is not only the result of organized, thorough, and clear instruction, but of an environment that nurtures acceptance of oneself and a belief in constant improvement. In some organizations, you feel down to your core how much the founders and staff care about the work they do, and you feel it in a way that's hard to put into words. That's how I feel about this organization. I feel honored to have been a volunteer with the center and now a staff member. I look forward to seeing how this organization continues helping ASD adults achieve their goals and live their best lives.

2

KrisML Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/03/2022

Undoubtedly, the ASD Adult Achievement Center is a place filled with positivity, lots of learning, and advancement. I have been lucky enough to witness how young adults on the spectrum reach greater levels of independence by improving their self-advocacy skills, employability skills, social skills, executive functioning skills, and many more! I can attest that here at the ASDAAC, there's room for growth! Not only for the participants, but for staff members and volunteers as well.
I highly recommend the ASDAAC to young adults with Autism who desire to improve certain aspects of their life, their technical knowledge, proficiencies and skills!

2

teamelias2000 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/01/2022

This organization helped and taught me with so many things that will help me with all my skills and talents. I am grateful for the many instructors who helped me with the skills and understand a bit more about my disability and I look forward for future employment and help educate young adults with disabilities a as well as spreading my positivity and impacting others.

2

paulojgamba Client Served

Rating: 5

08/01/2022

This place has nice people. They helped me learn skills to do well with my career. I highly recommend it for people with ASD who want to improve their vocational and employability skills.

2

Lament Client Served

Rating: 4

07/26/2022

I learned about graphic design and enjoyed it very much. I see how they are very patient with everyone, and try their best to accommodate to each autistic individual. The only thing I didn't like was the presence of magazines that showcased programs like Autism Speaks. Having done research on Autism Speaks, I know they do not see autistic people as human and think autism is a disease. Otherwise, this is a great organization.

2

BenjaminDixon Volunteer

Rating: 4

07/26/2022

It was a pretty nice, understandable experience. Animating with Premiere Pro wasn't as hard as I thought it would be, and I got to socialize with new people.

2

StardustEY508 Client Served

Rating: 5

07/26/2022

My mom has recommended ASD to me almost a year ago and has showed me their programs that they provided! I have been participating at ASD for 6 months now and so far the people and classes are really great! I am currently enrolling in VIPWorks Level 2 and enjoy doing their graphic design program like Photoshop, Wordpress, Premire Pro, and more! I also enjoyed in participating in their soft skills and it really help me acclimate in the real life situation! I would highly recommend ASD Achievement to some of my friends who also has autism!

2

DVG62756 Client Served

Rating: 4

07/26/2022

Before ASD I didn't really have a plan. Everything wasn't set in stone. But now I have a plan. It feels good having a path to follow. The people here are very nice and aim at helping people.

2

mysterionisdead Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/26/2022

I have been attending this charity's classes since 2019 and I have had nothing but positive experiences so far. The instructors are kind, the other program participants are mature and the information that is given is very helpful. I highly recommend this charity to anyone with ASD who is having a difficult time transitioning into adult life. You will not regret your experience with ASD!

2

maryannVIPworks Advisor

Rating: 5

07/20/2022

I am privileged and honored to be a member of an amazing, close-knit team who works together to promote confidence and independence in the lives of our awesome participants. I am also privileged to watch as our students learn and grow as they develop their social skills and job readiness skills as well as learning to become more independent. In the 3 ½ years I have worked here, I have watched the amazing transformation of so many of our students as they increase in their skills of executive function and self-advocacy as well as developing friendships with their peers. Every day I witness our staff giving of themselves for our students, for whom they really care. I look forward to many more happy days at ASD Adult Achievement Center. (Staff Member)

2

T00nUpr95 Client Served

Rating: 4

07/20/2022

The VIPworks program was a surprisingly unique experience. They taught me how to use programs such as Photoshop, Premiere Pro, After Effects, Wordpress, and Canva.
During my time at ASD, I must admit, it has been a long and grueling process getting to where I am today. Knowing where my strengths and weaknesses lie when working within the guidelines and the time it takes to get ads, flyers, and website pages done within a specific amount of hours required. But, who am I to say that I don't love a good challenge?
Regardless, the teachers were always there to help guide me in the right headspace at moments where I felt lost. They took more than enough time and patience to help put me in the right direction. I'm at a loss for words, thank you just doesn't seem to be enough. I look forward to whatever the future holds for me thanks to them.

hithere77 Client Served

Rating: 1

05/23/2022

Terrible place not worthy of any donation if you have an adult with actual autism they will not accept them into any of their programs. You would be better off donating to autism speaks or CARD

2

Jcv0328 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/06/2021

I used to think this was just another corny excuse just to socialize but after all the ASD groups I've been in I've learned more, we've talked about more, and the sense of better progression.
Because as a kid I used to think these people were out here to chase cash but I realized Carmen, Sophie, Kris, Rebecca, and Mrs Bethany actually care to help us make progress with real struggles rather than speak to us like kindergartners and actually help us look for groups of our interest rather than forcing us to fit into society or trends like other ASD classes did when I was a kid.

I've never seen any other ASD group put more effort and effect than this group we share stories, we laugh, learn new things about each other the fact they were nice, friendly, and willing to actually know how each individual works rather than how the world works is the best.

After covid I gave up hope on friends, relationship status, and started ways of a nomad but now that I'm here I have the hope I need thank you for everything

2

Gcdeck Client Served

Rating: 5

08/06/2021

Going to PEERS for the past eight weeks, I can guarantee that anyone will see improvements on how they socialize with others. I would recommend this program to anyone, whether they're on the spectrum or not, who wants to improve their social skills and awareness.

2

TyTy Client Served

Rating: 5

08/06/2021

ASD is a great and welcoming place for anyone who may be on the spectrum. Everyone who works here is very accepting and friendly, and will always do what they can to help. I've attended several of their programs and they've left me for the better. If you want to be helped, listened to, and understood, this place is perfect for you.

2

AliceCullen2012. Client Served

Rating: 5

08/06/2021

I'm in the Peers Program. The staff is really nice and very understanding. I met some cool people here. I'm glad that I got to learn new things that can help me in life.

2

jose99 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/06/2021

I’m in the peers program. I have learned new things. I felt welcomed.

2

sw1234 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/05/2021

The moment I stepped into ASD Adult Achievement Center, I felt so welcomed and appreciated. The staff here has been amazing and really believed in me when it came to larger responsibilities. I have learned so much about ASD as a whole and I feel so connected to the participants here. This center has helped me grow so much as a person and has given me a supportive environment in which my strengths are recognized. I highly recommend ASD Adult Achievement Center for anyone looking to volunteer or use the amazing services that we provide!

2

Sparkella Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/05/2021

This summer I had the opportunity to volunteer at ASD Adult Achievement Center as a program assistant and it was truly a wonderful experience! Everyone was so kind and welcoming to me and all the other volunteers. Being a program assistant gave me a first hand view into the impact ASD Adult Achievement Center is making in participants' lives. I saw participants gain confidence, skills, and friendships. I loved getting to learn more about the ASD community and creating life long friends.

2

RStauffer Client Served

Rating: 5

06/23/2021

ASD Adult Achievement Center is truly a remarkable place to work at. There, I've met a lot of people that go through similar challenges that I also face. Here, I've learned all sorts of new techniques that will help more when I'm in a workplace to improve from the struggles that I have been going through and I have made many designs of creativity in the working environment.

2

KelseyCakes926 Client Served

Rating: 5

05/20/2021

ASD Adult Achievement Center is the ideal place to prepare you to strive for new found success! During my time here, I have made many new friends along the way and have become a much happier and confident person. Everyone here is well respected and there is little to no flaws about this organization. Thank you for everything!

2

Solari Client Served

Rating: 4

05/20/2021

Having gone through two of the classes on offer at the ASD Achievement Center and both have been greatly helpful to me. Career Success Shop helps you learn the steps and little tricks to find and keep a job, something i had been having trouble of late. The Self-Advocacy Program helps you find the proper times and methods to speak about our disabilities and other things about ourselves. The classes are fun and inclusive in my experience and have a major focus on positivity.

3

MJohnson09 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

This place was recommended to me by Jennifer Cicia of UCF CARD. I decided to give it a try and, after completing the VIPWorks summer program, was hired on with the company. I'm doing things I love, working with colleagues whom I enjoy working with, helping others like myself, and now I'm taking on more responsibilities to help the company expand. It has been life-changing for me and I am proud to be a member of this company.

2

Alex-Bonenfant Client Served

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

I've been in their VIP Works program for a month now and it's been a fantastic experience. The space feels safe and welcoming, and everyone who works here has been very supportive. The amount of encouragement and help building job skills, from both peers and instructors, has been amazing.

2

Jared-Y Client Served

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

This program is highly recommended because everyone is doing what they can to support their clients. There are life coaches and teachers who can help and assist you in life goals or in this class if you have any questions. This program can also introduce you to new experiences in computer programs (Canva, Powtoon, Photoshop, Etc.) . In addition, You can learn about how to handle your emotions while you're on the job. Overall, it would be a great experience on how to learn the ropes of a job.

2

matthew_C Client Served

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

I've been learning more about graphic design and animation. Being introduced to new programs I could use on my own has also been fun. When it comes to the Covid guidelines I do feel safe when I come here. I believe everyone has done all the right things to keep it feeling like a safe environment.

2

Andrewberry35 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

I've been here for three full weeks so far, and I've learned a lot about proper workplace conduct and how to succeed and excel at work and even in all areas of life. The people that are here are all very friendly and great at teaching me new things. I have confidence that all of the skills I'm learning here will help me in the future when it comes to succeeding in any career.

2

dkorentur Client Served

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

The VIPWorks program is amazing! I've learned so much from compostion of graphics to how to edit videos. These are marketable skills, and the fact they can adapt this program for people on the spectrum demonstrates their commitment to us, the attendees. COVID-19 guidelines are being followed constantly. I have never felt unsafe here, regarding my safety. Speaking of safety, the ASD Adult Achievement Center is a safe place for anyone on the spectrum, as well.

2

Troy_Farara Client Served

Rating: 4

10/19/2020

I am learning a lot here at ASD Adult Achievement Center when it comes to editing, copying, pasting, etc. I have enjoyed being here so far and I feel very comfortable doing all my assignments and I am always asking questions if there is something I am stuck on or confused by something. I feel quite safe here regarding the Covid-19 situation as I am always wearing my mask and social distancing so basically I am ok and comfortable with it. I am improving every single week and getting better with the requirements and hopefully It can easily be done without me asking questions and being stuck all the time.

3

Priya_C Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

My experience with ASD Adult Achievement has been purely positive. This organization has the incredible power of touching people's lives and hearts. I have seen how the programs have helped the participants tremendously. Additionally, I have grown as a person from what I have learned here. I would not be the person I am today if I had not gotten involved with this organization.

6

LucasJMercier Client Served

Rating: 5

10/14/2020

VIPWorks is a great company! They are all very friendly and helpful. It is a very good atmosphere to go into work everyday! All of the people and staff there are educated and there to offer assistance if you need it. It is a very nice location with ample space for everyone. You are offered whatever you need to succeed! You are given a chance to learn a lot and improve your skills in all areas, physical and social. You are guaranteed to have a great experience and learn a ton!

5

Marquis A. I. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/14/2020

Before coming to ASD Adult Achievement Center I was not clear on what my goal was in my career life, but with their help they've helped me realize my passion for Info tech and graphic design. These people do great work in helping young adults as well at their parents understand and work through problems of every day life. Rori Becker is a great leader and motivator. I really enjoy working here.

4

nseel37 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/14/2020

I have participated in the ASD Adult Achievement Center's VIPworks program, which gives adults with autism real-world on-the-job training, three times. I have had a great time working in this program and gaining skills in graphic design and marketing. I feel ready to dive into working full-time thanks to the ASD Adult Achievement Center!

7

BellaLavoie Client Served

Rating: 5

10/14/2020

Wonderful and supportive environment.
I am a member of the VIPworks program that helps with job training in adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This is my third semester and I have learned many skills and feel that I am much more prepared to join the work force after being in this program.
The supervisors are accommodating and understanding, and will make most any accommodation you may need (within reason).
Overall a great organization to work with.

4

acarb94 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/13/2020

The VIP works class went very well and I learned a lot about the Professional development part and use it during interviews and being on the job. I am also attending PEERS and have learned about social groups, entering conversations, and trading information. I am looking forward to the dating aspect and learning more and using it in the future. It is a great program and it helps very much.

5

Kaleigh505 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/13/2020

I really enjoyed all of the programs (i.e. Peers, Self Advocacy, etc.) that ASD Achievement Center offers! It has really helped me in my personal life. My social and soft skills have greatly improved. My family has really noticed a difference within me! I would recommend this program to anyone that needs help in their soft skills.

4

Cjbrindle Client Served

Rating: 5

10/13/2020

I started out in level 1 VIP works where I learned many interesting skills about making social media posts, videos, and 8th page ads. I'm also currently participating in the PEERS program where I'm learning a lot of social skills that will help me in the future. These skills will help me make friends and keep friends. The instructors here at ASD Adult Achievement Center are phenomenal and I've enjoyed my time learning here.

6

IsGavin Client Served

Rating: 5

10/13/2020

Considering that this was my first experience in a workplace environment, I can safely say that I never expected it to be this fun. I have learned new things thanks to both VIP Works and PEERS, made products that have been well received, and have in general been rewarded well for joining. This was well worth the almost year that it took for me to finally get into ASD Adult Achievement Center.

7

ZoomZ Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2018

These people do great work in helping young adults as well at their parents understand and work through problems of every day life .
Its amazing what Paula Breeden and the ASD center has done in helping these young adults get on the path to a normal life through personal understanding and custom coaching programs .

6

Writer General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/25/2018

This non-profit is an invaluable resource for parents who have children on the spectrum. It the go to place for services and more importantly service providers who can be very hard to find while weeding thru other general service providers. The ads they provide are very specific and clear to our needs - this should become the go-to place for hep with ASD nationally !!!

7

thp360 Volunteer

Rating: 5

12/10/2017

In being part of this great organization , the ASD Adult Achievement Center is fulfilling its vision of helping adults with Autism to have more independent lives. The organization is focused on helping Autistic adults in improving the skills necessary to become independent such as social and vocational skills. Adults in the spectrum alongside their families face the great challenge of what is going to happen to them once their parents are gone. It is very important for our society to address this issue and the organization is here to help families with these challenges.

6

Bradley B.1 Client Served

Rating: 4

12/04/2017

Before I attended the ASD Achievement Center, I was soo introverted and reluctant to get out and socialize. Now, thanks to the ASD Achievement Center, my self confidence has skyrocketed. They have opened up new avenues and opportunities for me so I can be more successful in life. And to that end, I can't thank them enough."

6

tcordova1 Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/25/2017

This organization has demonstrated excellence in creating an environment where individuals with autistic difficulties can come together and feel more connected with others who share the same desire to improve their lifestyles. I feel very grateful to this organization because it allowed me to gain more self-awareness about how to navigate successfully in different social situations.

6

mobileUser457607 Client Served

Rating: 5

11/22/2017

Great programs! Fun atmosphere! Knowledgeable staff!

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