employU

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!

05/13/2026

PSA: If you’re not following us on Snapchat yet… you’re about to have MAJOR FOMO 👀🔥

This summer is going to be FULL of fun, events, behind-the-scenes moments, and all the good vibes! You do NOT want to miss what we’ve got going on!

Make sure you add us on Snapchat NOW 👻 https://hubs.ly/Q04gxtVy0

05/12/2026

Our quarterly meeting was more than just a chance to connect on goals and growth; it was a fun and meaningful day spent with the incredible people who make employU what it is. 💙🧡

Team members traveled from all across Florida to come together for a day filled with collaboration, laughter, and team bonding. Moments like these are a powerful reminder of the passion, integrity, and commitment behind our mission.

We’re grateful for a team that continues to support one another, show up with heart, and create opportunities for people and communities across the state every single day.

Here’s to another impactful quarter ahead! 🚀

05/11/2026

Brandon is making a meaningful impact Walmart in Citrus Springs, where he works as a greeter and brings a welcoming energy to every customer who walks through the door. As a person with autism, he takes pride in creating a positive first impression and helping shoppers feel comfortable and supported. With guidance from his Employment Specialist, Ted, and support from employU, Brandon was able to expand his job search and find an opportunity where he could truly thrive.

Walmart has provided Brandon with a place to grow his customer service skills and build a consistent routine he enjoys. Through previous hands-on training experiences, he developed strong workplace skills that prepared him for success in his current role. Today, he looks forward to each shift, especially the chance to meet new people and assist them during their shopping experience.

Brandon is focused on continuing his journey with Walmart while working toward greater financial independence and future goals like purchasing his own vehicle. Stories like Brandon’s highlight the importance of inclusive workplaces like Walmart that open doors for individuals to succeed.