An Autism diagnosis, once considered rare, now affects about 1% of the world's population, with 1 in 36 children being diagnosed in the US as of 2023.

 Fulfilling Catering Orders

At ELIJA we've taken the liberty to redefine this Autism Awareness Month as "Autism Awareness, Acceptance and Action Month" to more closely reflect what the month of April really means to those living with Autism.

  Working in the Beyer Family Greenhouse at the ELIJA FARM

In order to reflect ELIJA's philosophy over these past 20+ years, working as agents of change, bringing acceptance, hope and opportunities to children, young adults, adults and their loved ones living with a diagnosis of Autism. As we continue to evolve as agents of change, we must tackle yet another challenge, the 80% - 85% unemployment rate amongst the Autism population. A staggering statistic that's all too real for young adults, adults and their families living with Autism!

 Tending to the ELIJA chickens

We plan to do this by launching our "Pave The Way to Employment," campaign, to create employment opportunities at the ELIJA Farm.

Employment offers invaluable opportunities for personal growth, social interaction, and a sense of accomplishment. For young adults and adults living with Autism, these opportunities are crucial for their overall well-being and development.

Our goal is to hire four employees for our 16 week summer 2023 CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program. Each ELIJA employee will be paid weekly (10 hours per week), for harvesting and preparing CSA's, from June 12 through September 26!

Please help us provide this opportunity to more people this summer!

Every donation goes directly to support employment for young adults and adults with Autism. Together we can transform lives, build self-esteem and truly empower people to achieve their full potential! Your donation if any amount helps someone living with Autism!

• A $15 donation employs one worker for one hour at the minimum wage

• A $37.50 donation employs one worker for an entire day (2.5 hrs)

• A $150.00 donation employs one worker for one full week (10 hrs)

• A $600 donation employs one worker for one summer month

• A $2,400 donation pays employs one worker for the summer CSA season (16 weeks)

Thank you for supporting our "Pave the Way to Employment" initiative and to show our appreciation for your support

• for gifts of $1 to $99.99 you will receive an ELIJA sticker

• for gifts of $100 to $149.99 you will receive an ELIJA t-shirt

• for gifts of $150 to $249.99 you will receive a 4" x 8" engraved patio/walkway paver at the ELIJA Farm's Beyer Family Greenhouse

• for gifts over $250 you will receive an 8" x 8" engraved patio/walkway paver at the ELIJA Farm's Beyer Family Greenhouse