February 2026

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

With the spring semester in full swing, I am filled with optimism for what lies ahead at Connections.

The 2026 Hearts & Hands Gala is just around the corner on February 28, and with our 10-year anniversary behind us, we’re looking ahead to what’s next. 

This year’s Gala theme, Building the Future Together, reflects our commitment to expanding Connections’ comprehensive educational, therapeutic, and life-skills programs for individuals with autism. Plans are underway for campus growth, enhanced programming, and state-of-the-art resources designed to support our students now and for the rest of their lives.

This vision is only possible because of the continued support of our families, donors, and community partners. We hope to see you at the Gala—and thank you, as always, for being such an essential part of our Connections community.



Jason Portman

Executive Director of Connections

More about the Gala 👇

YOU'RE INVITED TO THE 2026 HEARTS & HANDS GALA

The countdown is officially on, and we invite you to join us at the 2026 Hearts & Hands Gala in just a few short weeks as we celebrate your impact and the extraordinary future we are building together. This special evening brings our community together to honor the progress made possible through your support—and to look ahead at what’s next for Connections

As we plan for continued growth, your support has never been more important. A limited number of tickets and sponsorship opportunities are still available, and we would be honored to have you be part of this unforgettable night supporting a future where every student can thrive.

CONNECTIONS AT THE FLORIDA STATE CAPITOL IN TALLAHASSEE

Our Connections team traveled to Tallahassee alongside Pittman Law Group to advocate for funding to renovate and equip a dedicated Adult Vocational Program facility. The goal: expand service capacity and create accessible, adaptive spaces that support job readiness, life skills, and long-term independence for adults with autism.

We are incredibly grateful to Senator Tracie Davis, Representative Susan Valdés, Representative Allison Tant, Representative Marie Woodson, Speaker Daniel Perez, and Representative Josie Tomkow for their time, leadership, and support. We are especially grateful to co-sponsors Representative Anne Gerwig and Senator Mack Bernard for their continued support and commitment to Connections.

It was a very successful and energizing trip—and a powerful reminder of why this work matters.

CELEBRATING 100 DAYS SMARTER

January 27th marked the 100th day of school! We celebrated with with fun activities, big smiles, and well-earned certificates. We’re so proud of how far these kids have come—and we can’t wait to see what the next 100 days bring.

IT'S GARDENING TIME AT CONNECTIONS

It was time to replant our raised gardens and it turned into a fun and educational hands-on experience for everyone involved. Students, staff, board members and supporters from PGA National came together to replant our campus gardens, filling the space with new life—and a lot of excitement.

For our students, it was a chance to dig in, get their hands dirty, and see firsthand how food grows from the ground up.

Beyond planting, the day offered valuable lessons in patience, responsibility, and teamwork. We are deeply grateful to our dedicated staff members and volunteers who made this day possible. We can’t wait to watch the garden to grow!

WANT A CHANCE TO WIN $10,000 WHILE SUPPORTING CONNECTIONS?

Connections is excited to participate in Birdies for Charity, a fun and impactful fundraising program connected to the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches. The program gives supporters the opportunity to leverage the excitement of this premier PGA TOUR event while helping nonprofits raise critical funds for their mission.

Participating is easy: supporters make a minimum $20 donation and submit a guess for the total number of birdies made during the tournament’s competitive rounds, taking place February 26–March 1, 2026. The individual who guesses the exact number of birdies—or comes closest without going over—will have the chance to win a $10,000 grand prize, which they can keep or donate to the participating charity of their choice. It’s a simple way to support Connections, have some fun, and be part of the tournament excitement.

Thank you for supporting Connections and good luck!

A DAY FOR AUTISM: BUILDING BRIDGES WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT PICNIC

Mark your calendar! You're invited to join Connections and our friends at the Palm Beach Sheriff's Office on February 22nd at Village Park in Wellington! Get the details and RSVP here.

Registration is open for the 19th Annual Rooney 5K Run/Walk on April 4th, 2026 in West Palm Beach! We're so grateful to be among the beneficiaries of this incredible event.

Whether you’re a serious runner or just looking for a fun family outing, this beloved event has something for everyone.

All proceeds benefit Connections, Palm Beach County PAL, Potentia Academy, and Westgate Belvedere Homes Community Redevelopment Agency.

Don’t wait—sign up today and make your first steps of 2026 count for our community!

THANK YOU FOR THE FOOD DONATIONS!

Our Amazon Wishlist remains open for our Connections families facing food insecurity. Thank you for continuing to uplift our community with your compassion and generosity.

A big THANK YOU to State Representative Anne Gerwig for stopping by Connections for a tour and firsthand look at our programs.

Our students and adults truly enjoyed the visit!

BARBIE HAS LAUNCHED A DOLL ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM

Our latest blog is all about Barbie! Mattel's newest launch marks a meaningful step forward for autism representation in play. Designed with sensory-sensitive details and informed by community input, the new autistic doll gives many children the chance to see themselves reflected in everyday, joyful play. Representation matters — it fosters belonging, confidence, and understanding.

Mattel and autism advocates have positioned this doll as a conversation starter, offering families and educators an opportunity to talk about neurodiversity, individuality, and respect.

Follow us for the latest news and updates!

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