2023 Impact Report

HAPPINESS IS...

Inclusive 2023 IMPACT REPORT

1

CONTENTS

Letter from Leadership

04

Mission

06

History

07

Board and Development Council

08

Programs

09

LiFT Academy

10

LiFT University Transition Program

11

LiFT Adult Training Program

12

Sandi Lynn Geller Family Resource Center

13

LiFT By the Numbers

14

Student Story

15

Financials

16

Special Events

17

LiFTing Our Future Capital Campaign

18

Donors

20

3

LETTER FROM

LEADERSHIP Dear Friends, At LiFT, our mission is to inspire and empower people with neurodiversity to learn, thrive, and succeed. Not only do we provide challenging academics for our students, but we are intentional in our approach to enhance their social interpersonal, and leadership skills each day.

Did you know? In the year 2000, the prevalence rate of autism diagnoses was 1 in every 150 children. That rate has increased steadily each year over the past 20+ years, and in 2023, that prevalence rate has climbed to 1 in every 36 children being diagnosed with autism.

While there is no single known cause for autism given the complexity of the disorder, there is a common belief that both genetics and the environment are significant factors.

With earlier developmental screening, enhanced neurological testing, and improved diagnostic tools, parents are being tasked to navigate their child’s learning and development in a society where resources remain limited.

Often, when families come to LiFT, they do so with the weight of the world on their shoulders—a new diagnosis of autism, ADHD, or other learning disability was just identified for their son or daughter. Often, their neurodiverse loved one has been bullied in another school or made to feel inadequate or incapable of accomplishing much.

They have heard repeatedly that their child “can’t, won’t, or never will” as it relates to expectations for the future.

4

LiFT is here to help! LiFT is changing the narrative for this population daily. We are building a community of equitable learning, meaningful social experiences, enhanced community exposure, and thoughtful leadership development for students starting in kindergarten and throughout adulthood. LiFT helps students and their families to find peace, comfort, connections, and friendships. We are helping those with neurodiversity to gain confidence and to help remove the burden that has weighed them down in the past. At LiFT, we emphasize our values that each learner at LiFT comes to value their individual uniqueness and diversity as a gift to be celebrated. Equally important is for each learner to respect the differences found in one another because LiFT is more than a school; we are a community.

Over the past year, LiFT has worked with Skanska USA Building Inc. to renovate the former Clearwater YMCA campus into a state-of-the-art educational space to serve as LiFT’s new home. On August 17, 2023, LiFT opened our new campus to the community with an enrollment of 166 students, an all-time high for LiFT. Once all renovations are completed, LiFT will have the capacity to serve 400 students— all while keeping class sizes small, attention individualized, and continuing to identify new partnerships, while strengthening existing partnerships for the benefit of our LiFT learners.

We are incredibly thankful to our teachers, team members, and leadership team who give passionately every day to positively impact our students and adult learners while ensuring their safety; to our community partners who provide unparalleled opportunities for life skills and employment training; to our Board of Directors who selflessly give their time and talents to ensure LiFT’s sustainability and growth for generations to come; to our donors, for your extraordinary treasures and time that helps us to change lives.

Above all else, we are thankful to our families who have entrusted their children to LiFT. You are what drives us and are the reason for our constant pursuit for improvement and furthering our mission.

Thank you for partnering with LiFT on this journey to create a world where independence is possible for those with neurodiversity.

Together we are changing lives, and in doing so, we can change the world!

SHAWN NAUGLE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

5

VISION A world where independence is possible for the neurodiverse.

OUR MISSION To inspire and empower people with neurodiversity to learn, thrive and succeed.

VALUES We believe that each and every learner at LiFT comes to value and view their individual uniqueness and diversity as a gift to be celebrated. Equally important is for each learner to respect the differences found in one another.

6

2013

LiFT opened its doors with 17 students

2014

First LiFT Your Spirits annual gala First LiFT Academy graduating class LiFT University Transition Program opened

OUR STORY In 2012, Kim Kuruzovich and Keli Mondello had a vision.

Inspired by their daughters, they set out to create an inclusive and accepting environment where children would be free from bullying so they would have the peace to learn and grow.

Today, LiFT boasts an enrollment of 170(+) students and three educational programs. LiFT Academy is a place where students of all academic levels in Kindergarten through 12th grade can excel; LiFT University Transition Program is a four-year postsecondary program for students who have completed high school, but desire continued academics, career readiness, and intensive life skill training; and LiFT Adult Training Program offers continued learning and employment skills while promoting social enterprise.

As a recognized leader in the landscape of special education and inclusivity, LiFT is committed to providing exceptional and equal opportunities in education, employment and life experiences for ALL!

2015

First microbusiness, Leo’s Café, opens

2018

First LiFT University Transition Program graduation Established new microbusinesses, LiFT Your Heart and LiFT U Cleaning Crew

2019

Established LiFT Adult Training Program

2020

Shawn Naugle announced as new Executive Director LiFT Your Fork microbusiness launch

2021

LiFT launches Sandi Lynn Geller Memorial Family Resource Center

2023

7

LiFT purchases a new campus to secure our future

LiFT Opens Clearwater Campus to house all LiFT Programs

MEET OUR BOARD

Keli Mondello Board Chair and Co-Founder

Shawn Naugle Executive Director

Kim Kuruzovich Vice Chair and Co-Founder

Matt Rich Treasurer

Elliad Granger Director

Kyle Maxson Director

Colby Masterson Director

Amy Maguire Director

& DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL Carol Bumiller

Kim Kuruzovich

Lee Stratton

Scott Crisco

Colby Masterson

Ryan Stratton

Kelly Fratoni

Sarah Michaud

Chad Wammock

Katie Glaser

Keli Mondello

Cherra Wammock

Todd Jennings

Drew Revitzer

Toni Jones

Lynda Spofford

8

WHO WE ARE

OUR PROGRAMS

Our goal is to level the playing field for individuals with learning differences and neurodiversity. Through our programs, we provide our learners with exceptional academics, life skills, career training, and opportunities to strengthen social skills and build meaningful friendships.

LiFT Academy A safe, inviting, and educational space for students with neurodiversity in grades K-12.

LiFT University Transition Program A post-secondary program to meet the needs of young adults with neurodiversity.

LiFT Adult Training Program Provides adults with neurodiversity (ages 23+) with the opportunity to develop employability skills, strengthen social skills, and gain independence.

Sandi Lynn Geller Memorial Family Resource Center A community-based initiative that provides services for families in Tampa Bay and beyond living with neurodiversity.

9

LiFT Academy emphasizes a preventative approach to bullying, labels and exclusion while offering challenging academics, after-school clubs and enrichment programs. At LiFT Academy, we are committed to developing the individual talents and personal character of each student.

166+

STUDENTS

AT A GLANCE

100%

OF STUDENTS ARE ABLE TO PARTICIPATE IN ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS

100%

OF STUDENTS GRADUATE WITH A TRADITIONAL HIGH SCHOOL OR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION

8:1

AVERAGE STUDENT TO TEACHER RATIO IN K-6

16:1

AVERAGE STUDENT TO TEACHER RATIO IN 7-12

Ultimately, students will learn how to meet daily life challenges independently and with confidence, becoming productive, successful citizens in our community.

100% of our students have an individual LiFT Support Plan, identifying the unique academic accommodations needed to achieve their fullest potential.

Weekly Social Skills classes to navigate emotions, social interactions, and behaviors, along with independent living skills for our young adults.

Behavior Therapists partner with us in meeting student needs. They are welcome in the classroom setting at all grade levels.

Unique accommodations such as varied seating options, fidgets, sensory foot pads, and fluorescent light covers in classrooms to reduce sensory overload.

10

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Winter the Dolphin Beach Club | Pinellas Park Church of Christ |“Let’s Take it Outside

Each LiFT U student is matched with an internship through LiFT’s Community Partners program. This has successfully engaged both businesses and non-profits to provide on-the-job training to our students, as well as an opportunity to explore career choices that align with their skill sets, talents and interests.

With Misty Wells” Discovery Network | Crabby Bill’s | Bear Valley Farm | Bark Life | Publix | Pharmetric | Community Foundation of Tampa Bay Indian Rocks Christian Thrift Store | IREats | City of Pinellas

85% OF INTERNSHIPS TURNED INTO EMPLOYMENT

Park | Forbes Rec Center |

35+ COMMUNITY PARTNERS PROVIDED INTERNSHIPS FOR LUTP STUDENTS SINCE THE PROGRAM’S INCEPTION

John’s Hopkins All Children’s Hospital | HUG

1:1 CAREER READINESS: RESUME BUILDING, INTERVIEW SKILLS, AND A JOB COACH

11

100% OF LEARNERS HAVE LIFE SKILLS TRAINING, SUCH AS DRIVER’S EDUCATION AND CULINARY ARTS

This program for ages 23+ develops employability skills, strengthens social skills, and identifies individual gifts to explore ways to gain independence. Crew members gain confidence as they work together daily to grow our microbusinesses.

MICROBUSINESSES LiFT Your Heart Team members create high-interest products (such as beach bags, wine bags, candles, tea towels, and more) to sell to the general public. liftyourheart.liftfl.org

LiFT Your Fork Students study popular food trends, design menus, shop for ingredients, and create mouthwatering meals, appetizers, and desserts. And yes, we deliver! liftyourfork.liftfl.org

LiFT U Cleaning Crew Students learn janitorial skills that will prove to be beneficial as they seek employment. Their regular clients include Studio Movie Grill, Pinellas Park Church of Christ and First Christian Church of Seminole.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES: • Increased problem-solving • Enhanced decision-making abilities • Improved interpersonal relationships • Money management • Public speaking skills

12

• Job readiness • Social psychological development • Heightened self-esteem • Improved executive functions

SANDI LYNN GELLER MEMORIAL

FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER The Sandi Lynn Geller Memorial Family Resource Center (FRC) is a community- based, family-focused, inclusive platform that provides programs and services based on the growing needs of families in our community and beyond living with neurodiversity.

The FRC includes: parent mentoring, support groups, expert speakers, local events serving the neurodiverse population, family counseling resources, sensory- friendly service providers and more!

THIS YEAR WE...

Increased Community Partners by

“This is wonderful, as parents, we’ve found invaluable support and a nurturing community here. We love that we have the opportunity to ask any questions and know that the LiFT Family Resource Center can assist us in locating our answer. Their commitment to families is a shining example of how a caring organization can truly

“

“

40%

make a difference.” - FRC Parent

Connected

two

new family a month to LiFT

Grew Facebook Group to over

340 members

ABOUT SANDI None of this would be possible without Sandi Lynn Geller, who as LiFT’s valued team member, managed the development of this program with a dream to impact the world through this Family Resource Center.

During its development, she was fighting a courageous battle with a rare and incurable form of cancer. She oversaw this project from November 2020 until she entered the arms of our Heavenly Father on May 2nd, 2021. In honor of Sandi and her family, LiFT is committed to bringing her passion and spirit forward with the Sandi Lynn Geller Memorial Family Resource Center (FRC).

13

WE CELEBRATE DIVERSITY. Whether you’re a LiFT family, team member, living with neurodiversity, have a neurodiverse loved one, or a LiFT supporter, we celebrate YOU!

LiFT LEARNERS

LiFT TEAM

More than 95% of our Students are on scholarships.

Enhanced teaching certification requirements and subject matter expertise.

LiFT COMMUNITY

Increased total compensation for all LiFT Team Members.

Increased community partnerships by 40%.

14

Strict anti-bullying policy with implementation of positive behavior intervention strategies.

Created more robust benefits package and opportunities for professional development for LiFT Team Members.

The Sandi Lynn Geller Family Resource Center has expanded its reach, enhancing accessibility for families.

MEET AUBREY Meet Aubrey Ostrander, a remarkable young student who has overcome adversity with determination and the support of a nurturing educational environment. In Aubrey’s previous school, she faced the harsh realities of bullying, feeling threatened, and struggling with her dyslexia. Despite these challenges, Aubrey persevered.

But then, a ray of hope emerged when Aubrey and her family discovered our LiFT Academy. It was a turning point in their life journey. Here, Aubrey found not just a school but a warm and inclusive community that embraced her learning style and uniqueness.

With caring teachers, supportive classmates, and an environment that fosters understanding, Aubrey began to thrive. Her dyslexia was no longer an obstacle but a unique aspect of her identity that was celebrated and supported.

Today, Aubrey is not only excelling academically but has also regained her confidence and selfesteem. She now excels in speaking engagements and confidently shares her journey with others. She has found joy in learning, and her passion for education shines brightly. Aubrey’s parents are elated to see their child’s transformation, and Aubrey is proud of her own growth.

Aubrey’s story is a testament to resilience, the power of a supportive community, and the incredible potential that lies within each of us when we find the right environment to flourish.

We’re honored to have Aubrey Ostrander as a part of our school family, and we look forward to witnessing her continued success and growth.

15

STATE SCHOLARSHIP 29%

FINANCIALS

PRIVATE TUITION 15%

PROGRAMS 4%

REVENUES

ANNUAL GIVING 30%

INVESTMENT <1%

Total $3,749,539

GRANTS 20%

The generous contributions from our family of donors directly support our annual operations, including investment into staff development, continuing education, technology, equipment, and benefits.

FUNDRAISING 11% GENERAL OPERATING 11% PROGRAM SERVICES 77%

EXPENSES Total $3,552,341

EXPENSES $551,850

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

CONTRIBUTIONS $4,265,118 As of the close of our 2022-2023 fiscal year, the LiFTing Our Future Capital Campaign had reached 26% of the $16 million goal. These contributions allowed purchasing the former 60,000 sq ft YMCA of Clearwater on 7.2 acres in Clearwater, Florida. The LiFTing Our Future Capital Campaign supports the renovation of this building, housing all three programs of LiFT under the same roof for the first time in our history.

Revenues

Operations

Expenses

Operations

State Scholarship Funded Tuitions

$ 1,097,128

Program Services

$2,749,761

Private Pay Tuition

$ 566,924

General Operating

$411,672

Program Service Revenue

$ 157,158

Fundraising

$390,908

Contributions and Grants

$ 772,889

TOTAL

$3,552,341.91

Annual Giving

$ 1,132,691

Investment (loss) income, net

$ 22,749

Capital Campaign

TOTAL $ 3,749,539

16

Contributions

$4,265,118

Expenses

$551,850

SPECIAL EVENTS Our LiFT events are a great way to learn about our mission, meet the LiFT team, volunteer and support our organization.

616

Guests attended LiFT Events

$809,200 Total Raised

LiFT YOUR SPIRITS This Kentucky Derby themed event is our largest fundraiser of the year. It’s full of entertainment, chance drawings, and exclusive silent and live auction items that have everyone bidding! Save the date for May 4, 2024.

RISE AWARDS Our annual luncheon celebrates inspirational leaders in Tampa Baby. Through their acts of courage, compassion and commitment, these individuals rise above the status quo to LiFT and inspire others.

17

THE NEW SPACE WILL CONTAIN...

Classrooms for our learners Therapy and Sensory Rooms Music and Art Spaces

WHY DID LIFT NEED A NEW CAMPUS?

Media Center Gymnasium Community Café Administrative Offices

LiFT has grown by more than 700% since opening our doors in 2013 and outgrew our space. Our new campus allows us to serve more students and create a spotlight for what is possible for individuals and families living with neurodiversity. We strive to be a resource and partner for the whole community. Through partnerships, internships,

Culinary Arts Kitchen

employment, and volunteerism; we will break down bar-

Assembly Space

reach their full potential.

Athletic Fields

To learn more visit: liftingourfuture.org

riers and continue to support the ability of our learners to

LiFT Adult Training / Microbusiness Lab Sandi Lynn Geller Memorial Family Resource Center Health Clinic And space to

DREAM!

18

REACHING OUR GOAL TOGETHER LiFT is poised for the largest growth in our 10-year history. With the purchase of the former YMCA of Clearwater building, the new permanent home of LiFT will allow us to grow by 300% in the next 3 years. You, our donors, have made this possible, creating a strong foundation for expansion.

Thankfulness strengthens relationships and we could not feel more connected to our incredible donors, volunteers, and leaders. You are an integral part of our team and we are truly grateful for your time, talent, and treasures. We welcome you to continue this journey with us, embrace our mission and change the landscape of learning for those with neurodiversity. Together we can reach our goals and build for the future.

You have many options when choosing to support Learning Independence for Tomorrow (LiFT). Selecting the ideal gift plan is a personal decision dependent on your personal financial situation and goals. We have included methods of giving below, but please feel free to contact us to discuss them in more detail.

Thank you for your support of LiFT.

METHODS OF GIVING GIFTS MADE BY CASH, CHECK OR CREDIT CARD Gifts made by cash, check or credit card are the most common and will allow LiFT to address our immediate needs. Checks should be made payable to Learning Independence for Tomorrow and can be mailed to 1005 S Highland Ave, Clearwater, FL 33756 or dropped off at our school office. Please visit our website at liftfl.org to donate by credit card.

CORPORATE MATCHING GIFTS A matching gift program provided through your employer may allow you to increase the value of your gift. Many companies match charitable gifts of employees, retirees or board members. Check with your company’s Human Resources Department to see if your employer has a matching gift program and if the campaign would qualify for a matching gift.

GIFTS OF SECURITIES – STOCKS, BONDS AND MUTUAL FUNDS PLANNED GIFTS Planned giving is the process of carefully selecting the best method and asset for making a charitable gift. Such a gift can enable you to take full advantage of the tax laws to accomplish your financial and charitable goals.

To learn more about how you can support Learning Independence for Tomorrow, please reach out to Development Director, Julie Brecher, at jbrecher@liftfl.org or (727) 433-7298 or Executive Director, Shawn Naugle, at snaugle@liftfl.org or (813) 517-6905 19

THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS

Because of your generosity, hundreds in need have had their lives improved as they are lifted up in dignity. The following list reflects donations received during the July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023 Fiscal year. We cannot list you all, but we thank you all equally. We strive for an error-free list. If we made a mistake, omitted you entirely, or if you do not wish to be listed in the future, we apologize. Please contact us to let us know at info@liftfl.org.

$25,000+

$10,000 - $14,999

Bill Morean Keli and Mark Mondello Florida Department of Education City Wide Facility Solutions Steven Raymund Jabil Skanska USA Building, Inc Erica and Matthew Nord Andrea and Colby Masterson Stephen and Stephanie Flagg

Tara and Cory Gaffney Susan and Marc Wigler Jackie and William Muir Julie and Matthew Rich Jean and Dave Cantu Lynne and Rocky Beal Debbie and Joel Momberg Able Trust Foundation Beth and David Park Tara and Bruce Johnson Eileen and Gregory Pater Catherine and Michael Dastoor Jamie and George Lutich Lorraine and Dick Vitale Copperhead Charities One Green Filter

$20,000 -$24,999 Lee and Nicole Pearlman CLA Foundation Chuck Jablon Guardian Trust Special Olympics Florida, Inc. The White Family Foundation Zarpet Family Foundation

$15,000 - $19,999 Nancy and Bill Peters Rebecca and Laurence Grafstein Community Foundation Tampa Bay

$5,000 - $9,999 B McClann Diane Lincoln Joseph Tocci Alvah H. and Wyline P. Chapman Foundation Lynda and Barry Spofford Drew Revitzer Layce and Adam Berry Michael Boccuti Kim Barger

20

Angela and Kevin Hawkins W Scott White Haven Design Center Kim and Tom Bernat Katie and Shawn Naugle Kimberly and Michael Kuruzovich St. Petersburg College Institute of Strategic Policy, Inc. TEGNA Foundation Patty and Tim Brundage Tracey and Mark Russell Anddrew Toepfer Jerilyn Rush Linda and Joe McBeth Loraine and Frank McKay Lorie and Tony Faulkner Joanie and Kevin Gallagher P Cheng Corcoran Partners Lauren and Neal Fiske Melanie Haynes Candice and Courtney Ryan Andrea Graham and Geoffrey Simon Catherine Wood American Legion Post 273 Raymond James Suncoast Credit Union Tampa General Hospital The Lightning Foundation Denise and Richard Mastry

$1,000 - $4,999 Core Scientific Sarah and Neal Schoenie Raul Gonzalez Phillip Piazza Lizabeth Moses and Rene Villeneuve Elizabeth and Richard Dvorak Jodi and John Sittig Bekah and Wade Rush Sabrina and Joseph Hennessey Judith and Larry Bellack Amy and Ron Ruffner Ernesto Arias Atbarre M Austin Joel Borden G Boyle Frank Bruno Ky Chai Eric Checkoway P Chilelli Bill Colyer Derek Fain Kimberly Gonzales Kristine and Jason Melachrino Dennie Masterson Charles Alvarez Bailey and Peter Vasti Diana Guenthardt Theresa and Mark Revitzer

21

DONOR THANK YOU CONT.

John Andrade Danna and Brian Theriault Claire Fournier Susan and Mark McGarry Ruth and Cliff Barnett Tanya and Tim Harrington Becky and Dewey Mitchell Smith & Associates Real Estate LLC Tampa Bay Buccaneers Lee and Steve Stratton Tina and James Sykes Christopher Brown Edward Cotilla Ashley and William Nall Miles and Bob Glaser John Altomare Kenneth Siegel Kevin Sowers Lynda and Barry Spofford Carol and Leonard Venckus Corcoran Partners Johns Hopkins All Children (Brain Institute) Rays Baseball Foundation, Inc. The Sons of the American Post Julie and Matthew Brecher Memorial Park Funeral Home Cherra and Chadwick Wammock Sarah and David Wallace Marci and Ken Cheesman Kelley and Mark Fratoni Danna and Brian Theriault Max Geller Laurie and Glenn Lyle Judy Resop Mark Burman Steve Griggs

Kris and Doug Otto George Spofford Patti and Tony Baldino J Chencs Chris Karamitsos Frank Vitarelli Leslie and Clifford Will Marylou and Joe Bourdow Rabbi Elizabeth and Rabbi Joshua Lobel Alicia Billington Peter McDowall Nicole Stott Gabrielle Mondello Sarah and Bill Wood Don Jowdy Chase Putzel Mike Zondlo Beth Dillinger Foundation Culvers Rivero, Gordimer & Company Wendy and Michael Addessi Gabrielle Cuccaro Joe Isabel Paul de Freitas Jeri Smith Michael Whitcraft BKS Partners Merit Professional Coatings Sloan Design Fl, Inc. Rosemary and John O’Connor Jodie Bielman Jonathan Greene Shelly and Stephen Page Heidi Banks Courtney and Wayne Dehaven Michelle and George Jallo

22

Steven Taylor Beth Walters and Michael Babich Chelsea Geller Greg Groger Linda and Jeff Busch Kim and John Duffy Matthew Jontz Jared Rispens Charles Resing Jason Witek Patrice Dickerson Nicholas Dorsten Steven Hano Cherry and Patrick Mullen Garrett Ruffner Alicia Schulhof and Patrick O’Connor Tiffany and Rick Larson Sheila and Maurice Van Zoolingen Nicolas Codolosa Caroline Harris Cindi Magray Carolina and Frederic McCoy Lisa and Gary Schick Kyle Taylor Joseph Schrage Holly and Ed Andrade Harold Bellack Bill Blazowski Sherri and David Bossung Wei and Mark Brian Tj Dovale Mariafernanda and Jeffrey Hockersmith Julia Klaiber Frank Marcinkus Maribeth and John Putzel Tawna Schilling

Brust Nutter Wealth Advisors Thomas Cetta Joseph Eckel Frank Janssee Jennifer Lanning Doneene and Chad Loar Lee Martino Debra and Bob Maxwell Jane and John Ogilvie Bette and Cyril Schrage Debbie Sembler Jan and Craig Sher Laura and Alden Sherman Stephen Sobota Tanya and Rocky Veitschegger Beth and Michael Walters Gulf Beaches Rotary Club

23

HOW YOU CAN HELP $1,000 - $7,000

$500

$400

Equal to tuition subsidy

Would help to provide

for a student

textbooks for a student

Underwrites computer expenses

$150

$100

$50

Assist in covering the

Would help to provide

cost of Microbusiness supplies

afterschool program for a student

Would help to provide materials for a student

Scan here to donate:

Or mail your donation to : Learning Independence for Tomorrow | 1005 S. HIGHLAND AVENUE, CLEARWATER, FL 33756

LiF TFL .ORG