employU

06/09/2026

Brian’s employment journey shows how support, experience, and determination can lead to success. As a person with an intellectual and developmental disability, Brian started with employU through Career Camps and Work-Based Learning Experiences before joining the REDI Program. With guidance from his REDI Coach, Deborah, he built confidence and developed important workplace skills.

Over the next year, Brian completed three on-the-job training opportunities. At Burlington, with support from his job coach Helen, he improved his independence, consistency, and work ethic. He later moved to Walgreens where he worked without one-on-one support and earned praise for his adaptability and responsibility.

Today, Brian works as a Donation Sorter at Goodwill Industries International in Jacksonville. His attention to detail, organization skills, and strong work ethic have made him a valued member of the team.

Brian’s story highlights the power of inclusive employment and the importance of giving people opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. employU is proud to partner with employers like Goodwill that create workplaces where individuals can build confidence, gain independence, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

06/06/2026

Felipe’s story shows how determination and support can help someone reach their goals. After working with employU for more than a year, Felipe successfully completed an On-the-Job Training opportunity and earned a permanent position as a Warehouse Assistant at Ace Hardware.

As a person who is deaf, Felipe faced barriers during the hiring process, but he stayed focused on building a better future for himself and his family. With support from his Employment Specialists Tony and Crystal, Felipe worked on communication strategies, workplace skills, and building confidence in his abilities.

We are incredibly proud of Felipe and all he has accomplished. His story is a reminder that when individuals are given the opportunity and support to succeed, they can make a lasting impact in the workplace and their community.

06/05/2026

This is NOT your average summer camp. It’s fun. It’s friendship. It’s connection. And it’s full of opportunities for students to discover what’s possible for their future. 🌞

Because disability is part of diversity and every student deserves opportunities to explore their strengths, interests, and goals in an inclusive and supportive environment.

At employUs Summer Career Camp, students can enjoy:
🕶️ Hands-on activities
🕶️ Fun field trips
🕶️ Create meaningful social connections
🕶️ Exploring exciting career paths like hospitality, marine science, wildlife, tourism, medical, and more!

Sing up here to have an unforgettable summer with new friends: https://hubs.li/Q04k2YYJ0

06/02/2026

Ayanna’s story is a powerful example of determination, growth, and believing in yourself. As a person living with diabetes, vision loss in one eye, and other medical disabilities, Ayanna faced many difficult moments, including being out of work and experiencing homelessness. With support from her family and her Employment Specialist, Tony, she focused on rebuilding her life and creating a more stable future.

After just three months, Ayanna earned an on-the-job training opportunity at the North Central Florida Community Center, formerly the YMCA. Even during a hiring freeze, her strong work ethic and positive attitude helped her become the very first person hired under the new organization. Today, Ayanna is thriving as a Member Services Associate and is continuing to work toward her goals in social work and continuing her education.

Ayanna describes herself as feeling “on top of the world,” and her story reminds us all that setbacks do not define a person’s future. We are incredibly proud of everything Ayanna has accomplished and excited to see where her journey leads next.

05/29/2026

Watching your student take their next step can feel exciting and a little overwhelming. That’s why our Summer Career Camps are designed to support both students and families every step of the way. 💙

At our Summer Career Camps, students build real-world job skills, explore different career paths, and grow a sense of independence and pride in what they can achieve.

Our camps are thoughtfully designed for students with IEPs, 504 plans, and diagnosed disabilities. With personalized guidance and a team that truly cares, you can feel confident your student is in the right hands.

📍 Camp Dates & Locations:
• June 8–11: Jacksonville & Port St. Lucie
• June 15–18: West Palm Beach
• June 15–19: Orlando & Tampa
• June 22–25: Daytona Beach
• June 22–26: Orlando
• July 13–16: Inverness
• July 20–23: Melbourne, Fort Myers & Ocala
• July 27–31: Florida Keys

Give your student the opportunity to grow, connect, and discover what’s possible this summer.
👉 Learn more & sign up here: https://hubs.li/Q04fS6W30

05/25/2026

Coen, a youth client from Bristol, FL, is building a bright future through hands-on learning and meaningful exploration. As a Library Facilities and Grounds Assistant during his second Work-Based Learning Experience at Calhoun County Public Library, Coen takes pride in supporting outdoor projects that enhance the space for his community. His service-oriented mindset and motivation to help others shine through not only in his work but also in his involvement in the school band and debate club, where he continues to grow his confidence and communication skills.

With support from employU and Employment Specialist Tiffany, Coen participated in an informational interview and workplace tour at Panhandle Therapy Center, LLC in Blountstown, where he explored his interest in social work. The experience left a lasting impression, strengthening his passion for helping others and deepening his understanding of therapy approaches and crisis intervention. Coen’s curiosity, maturity, and thoughtful engagement stood out as he connected with professionals in the field and absorbed every moment of the experience.

Now, Coen is eager to continue learning and work toward a future career in social work, where he can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. His journey reflects the power of opportunity, guidance, and a strong desire to serve.

05/22/2026

What nobody tells you about our Summer Career Camps…

It’s more than just a summer program. For many families, it becomes a place where their child starts opening up, gaining confidence, and feeling excited about what’s next.

✨ It’s a place where your child can explore who they are
✨ You may notice new motivation & excitement in your child about their future
✨ Your child will meet peers who share similar experiences and feel less alone
✨ Your child will build confidence by trying new things in a safe & encouraging space

📍 Camp Dates & Locations:
• June 8–11: Jacksonville & Port St. Lucie
• June 15–18: West Palm Beach
• June 15–19: Orlando & Tampa
• June 22–25: Daytona Beach
• June 22–26: Orlando
• July 13–16: Inverness
• July 20–23: Melbourne, Fort Myers & Ocala
• July 27–31: Florida Keys

Ready to sign up? Learn more here: https://hubs.li/Q04fR71k0

05/18/2026

Charles’s journey is a great example of growth, determination, and the impact of the right support system. As a single father with experience in the foodservice industry, Charles partnered with employU in Port St. Lucie with the goal of becoming financially independent. As a person with cognitive impairments, he worked closely with his Employment Specialist, Larry, to build confidence and strengthen his interview skills through mock interviews and helpful feedback after each interview. These experiences helped Charles recognize his strengths and prepare for new opportunities.

In just three months, Charles secured a position as a dishwasher with the team at Clover Park and quickly became a dependable and valued employee. His manager shared positive feedback and noted that Charles is doing an excellent job in his role. With growing confidence and a strong foundation, Charles is now working toward his SafeServ certification and exploring opportunities in food preparation. His story shows how personalized support, trust, and consistency can help people achieve meaningful employment and long-term success.

05/15/2026

Looking for a summer experience for your child that truly makes a difference? ☀️

employU’s Summer Career Camps offer more than just something to do, they provide a supportive summer experience with real-life impact.

In a safe and encouraging environment, students build confidence, learn real-world job skills, and discover what they’re capable of. Our team understands the unique needs of students with disabilities and is here to support them every step of the way, so you can feel confident knowing your student is learning, growing, and being supported.

📍 Camp Dates & Locations:
• June 8–11: Jacksonville & Port St. Lucie
• June 15–18: West Palm Beach
• June 15–19: Orlando & Tampa
• June 22–25: Daytona Beach
• June 22–26: Orlando
• July 13–16: Inverness
• July 20–23: Melbourne, Fort Myers & Ocala
• July 27–31: Florida Keys

Give your student a summer that helps shape their future. 💙
👉 Learn more & sign up here: https://hubs.li/Q04fRHT-0

05/15/2026

Keith is excited to attend and speak at the AHA 2026 Autism Health and Abilities National Conference, taking place July 17–18, 2026, in Longwood, Florida! Hope to see you there!

✨ Meet Our Speaker: Keith Bourkney

We are so excited to welcome Keith to speak at the AHA 2026 Autism Health and Abilities National Conference on July 17 and 18, 2026 in Longwood, Florida. We are honored to have them share their knowledge and expertise with our community.

Learn more and register here: https://www.abilitiesworkshop.com/aha

We cannot wait to see you there!