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Ernie's Story
Center of Excellence
The Els for Autism Foundation was established in 2009 by Ernie and Liezl Els and has since embarked on a catalytic philanthropic project - The Els Center of Excellence - launching a capital campaign to raise $30 million to finance the facility. The Els' have already committed $6 million of their own money. The Els Center of Excellence is now moving from concept to reality and it is hoped that it will be operational by 2015. The Center is an extraordinary project that is designed to show the world what should be available to children and young adults on the autism spectrum. The virtual aspects of the Center are discussed under the E-learning tab. The physical components include an educational program for 300 students ages 3-21, applied research, medical and professional services, transition to adulthood and its myriad of aspects including adult living and job training.
If you are interested in becoming a founder of the Center of Excellence, a group known as the ELS 22, contact the Executive Director of Els for Autism, Cheryl Pray. Email: cheryl.pray@ernieels.com. Also contact Cheryl if you require further information on the Capital Campaign and its programs.
