South Miami/Coral Gables Elks Lodge #1676 had its Elks National Foundation Impact Grant renewed for 2025. The $10,000 grant supports four quarterly events the lodge produces to help promote autism awareness. This is the second year the lodge has partnered with the University of Miami & Nova Southeastern University CARD Program (Center for Autism & Related Disabilities). On March 19, the lodge hosted a virtual lunch and learn employment series entitled Social Filter. Twelve CARD clients attended the live Zoom meeting. All seminars are posted on a website for others to watch and learn skills that will help them prepare for job interviews. The lodge used $250 of the Impact Grant to pay the instructor's fee. On March 22, the lodge hosted CARD clients and their families and caregivers to a barbecue lunch, which featured a magic show. This was followed by a Hoop Shoot and Soccer Shoot. Clients not interested in these activities can visit a game room with various board games to play. The lodge also provided a quiet room, which was dimly lit with soothing music for relaxation. Taking care of a loved one with autism can be stressful. This event provided a secure, pleasant atmosphere for CARD clients and their families to relax and enjoy the various entertainment. Many parents and caregivers were very appreciative, stating that no other organization has offered this kind of support. About 107 individuals attended this event. The lodge spent $1894.93 of the Impact Grant for this event.
Pictured are Kenneth Duvall, Dr. Diane Adreon, and Gus Bel, CARD staff members; Jimmy Cielinski, magician and new Elk; and Jennifer Feinstein, CARD staff member.