2024 IMPACT REPORT
LETTER FROM LEADERSHIP
Dear Friends,
At LiFT, we are building a Center of Excellence to support families who love someone with neurodiversity. The heart of what we do is and will always be a high quality private educational experience for learners of any age. As we seek excellence in practice and delivery, we will inspire our learners to do the same. Our top-notch faculty, increased investments in personalized learning, focus on reading and math foundations, and leveraging of technology ensure our learners have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
The theme for 2024 has been resilience. From a leadership change to the devastation of a major hurricane and significant facility damage, our LiFT family has embraced multiple opportunities to come together as a community to adapt and overcome the obstacles placed before us. Our students are the best examples of resilience in action anyone could find. Each day is an opportunity to start anew, embrace our own personal challenges and gifts, look forward with hope, and forge ahead with grit and determination. Our differences are our superpowers, and we have leaned on them through storm and through change.
We look forward with hope because there is so much more we can accomplish together. We can be a resource for all that comes with neurodiversity. We can bring in top notch medical care, engage with and bring in community resources for assessment and referral, build out our extracurricular offerings, and continuously improve our facility to create excellent hands-on experiences in our new production kitchen and beyond. As we turn the page to 2025, the potential feels limitless.
As we share the incredible story of LiFT 2024, we are filled with hope for the future, knowing that our community is strong, committed to our mission, and fully engaged in building an organization focused on excellence. On behalf of the students, faculty, team members, volunteers and supporters of LiFT, I thank you for linking arms with us, for offering your support and engagement, and for trusting us to co-create a world where independence is possible for the neurodiverse.
MATT SPENCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
OUR MISSION
To inspire and empower people with neurodiversity to learn, thrive and succeed.
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.
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 190 (+) 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 post-secondary 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!
LiFT opened its doors with 17 students
First LiFT Your Spirits annual gala
First LiFT Academy graduating class
LiFT University Transition Program opened
First microbusiness, Leo’s Café, opens
First LiFT University Transition Program graduation
Established new microbusinesses, LiFT Your Heart and LiFT U Cleaning Crew
Established LiFT Adult Training Program
LiFT Your Fork microbusiness launch
LiFT purchases a new campus to secure our future
LiFT launches Sandi Lynn Geller Memorial Family Resource Center
LiFT Opens Clearwater Campus to house all LiFT Programs
MEET OUR BOARD
Co-Founder
Chris Aisenbrey Director
Erick Beck
Colby Masterson Director
Keli Mondello
Matt Spence Executive Director
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.
OUR PROGRAMS WHO WE ARE
LiFT Academy
A safe, inviting, and educational space for students with neurodiversity in grades K-12.
LiFT University Transition Program
A post-secondary program that equips young adults with neurodiversity (ages 18-22) with the skills and resources needed for employment.
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.
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.
THINGS THAT MAKE US UNIQUE
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.
We have Evera Health and the YMCA on our campus partnering to best serve the needs of our students and families
151+ STUDENTS
97% OF STUDENTS RECEIVE SCHOLARSHIP ASSISTANCE
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.
100% STUDENT GRADUATION RATE
AVERAGE STUDENT TO TEACHER RATIO K-5 6:1 6-8 9:1 9-12 14:1
OUR COMMUNITY PART NERS
Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Winter the Dolphin Beach Club | Pinellas Park Church of Christ | Crabby Bill’s | Bear Valley Farm | Bark Life | Publix | Pharmetric | Community
Foundation of Tampa Bay Indian Rocks Christian Thrift Store | IREats | City of Pinellas Park | Forbes Rec Center | John’s Hopkins All Children’s Hospital | HUG Indian Rocks
Christian School | Citywide, Evara Health | St. Pete Chamber of Commerce
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.
91% OF GRADUATES EXPERIENCE PAID EMPLOYMENT BY THE END OF THE FOUR-YEAR PROGRAM
1:1
CAREER READINESS: RESUME BUILDING, INTERVIEW SKILLS, AND A JOB COACH
35+
COMMUNITY PARTNERS PROVIDED INTERNSHIPS FOR LUTP STUDENTS SINCE THE PROGRAM’S INCEPTION
169+ Hours
STUDENTS GAIN OVER 170 HOURS OF HANDS-ON JOB EXPERIENCE ANNUALLY.
LiFT Your Heart
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 Fork
LiFT U Cleaning Crew
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
Students study popular food trends, design menus, shop for ingredients, and create mouthwatering meals, appetizers, and desserts. And yes, we deliver! liftyourfork.liftfl.org
Students learn janitorial skills that will prove to be beneficial as they seek employment. Their regular clients include Pinellas Park Church of Christ and Indian Rocks Christian School.
PROGRAM OUTCOMES:
• Increased problem-solving
• Enhanced decision-making abilities
• Improved interpersonal relationships
• Money management
• Public speaking skills
• 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!
“I want to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible support we received from the LiFT Family Resource Center. The dedication and comprehensive resources provided have been invaluable. I’m truly humbled by the time and effort invested in helping our family.”
- FRC Parent
ABOUT SANDI
350% increase in workshops registrations
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).
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!
More than 97% of our Students are on scholarships.
Strict anti-bullying policy with implementation of positive behavior intervention
L i FT LEARNERS L i FT TEAM
Enhanced teaching certification requirements and subject matter expertise.
Increased total compensation for all LiFT Team Members.
Created more robust benefits package and opportunities for professional development for LiFT Team Members.
COMMUNITY
Increased community partnerships by 30%. The Sandi Lynn Geller Family Resource Center has expanded its reach, enhancing accessibility for families.
MEET GABE
Gabe Crisp, affectionately known as “Crispy” by his friends, is an 8th grader at LiFT Academy, who showcases resilience, determination, and an unshakable spirit. Gabe enjoys video games, bowling, fishing with his dad, and watching baseball—he’s a big Tampa Bay Rays fan. Known for his bright smile, positive attitude, and knack for making friends, despite the challenges he has faced.
Born with a congenital heart defect, Gabe underwent three open-heart surgeries before age three and requires ongoing procedures. He thrived until the COVID-19 pandemic forced him into virtual learning, which was difficult due to his ADHD and learning disabilities. Struggling with isolation, his family turned to LiFT Academy, where his older brother was already a student.
With the school’s safety measures in place, Gabe’s doctors approved his enrollment. Since joining LiFT, Gabe has flourished. The school’s smaller class sizes, dedicated teachers, and supportive environment have made all the difference. At LiFT, Gabe found educators who prioritize not just his academic success but his personal growth. They take the time to ensure he understands his lessons, offer individualized support, and maintain open communication with his family. Gabe’s grades and test scores have improved significantly, but more importantly, he feels seen, valued, and empowered. Gabe sees himself and his peers at LiFT as more than students—they are warriors. Each has faced their own unique battles, from overcoming learning disabilities to defying societal expectations.
At LiFT, they are reminded that they are capable, important, and destined for success. For Gabe, LiFT Academy isn’t just a school—it’s a place where the impossible becomes possible. It’s where challenges are met with determination, and dreams are supported with encouragement and care. Gabe is proud to share his journey and grateful for the school that has helped him unlock his potential and embrace a bright, hopeful future.
FINANCIALS
SPECIAL EVENTS
Our LiFT events are a great way to learn about our mission, meet the LiFT team, volunteer and support our organization.
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 3, 2025.
804 Guests attended LiFT Events
$835,712
Total Raised
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.
OUR CAMPUS INCLUDES...
Sensory-Friendly Classrooms for our Learners
Therapy and Sensory Rooms
Music and Art Spaces
Computer Lab
Gymnasium
Community Café (coming soon!)
Administrative Offices
Culinary Arts Kitchen
Athletic Fields
LiFT Adult Training / Microbusiness Lab
Sandi Lynn Geller Memorial Family Resource Center
Health Clinic And space to DREAM!
BECOMING A CENTER OF EXCELLENCE...
Since opening our doors in 2013, LiFT enrollment has grown by more than 700%, leading to the need for a larger space. Now settled into our new campus, we can serve more students and shine a brighter spotlight on what’s possible for individuals and families navigating neurodiversity. Our campus serves as a resource and partner for the entire community. Through partnerships, internships, employment opportunities, and volunteerism, we continue breaking down barriers and empowering our learners to reach their full potential.
To learn more visit: liftingourfuture.org
REACHING OUR GOAL TOGETHER
LiFT is entering its 12th year with unprecedented momentum and opportunities for growth. After successfully completing our first year on our permanent campus, we are poised to expand enrollment by 300% over the next three years. This milestone is only possible because of you—our incredible donors, volunteers, and leaders—who have laid a strong foundation for our future.
Your unwavering support strengthens our mission and builds lasting connections. We are deeply grateful for your time, talent, and treasures, which play a vital role in transforming the educational landscape for individuals with neurodiversity. Together, we can continue this journey, embracing our mission and creating brighter futures for those we serve.
When you choose to support Learning Independence for Tomorrow (LiFT), you are making a profound impact. We understand that selecting the right gift plan is a personal decision influenced by your financial situation and goals. Below, we’ve outlined methods of giving, and we welcome the opportunity to discuss them further.
Thank you for your continued partnership and dedication to LiFT’s mission. Together, we will achieve great things!
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, Matt Spence at mspence@liftfl.org or call (727) 258-7659
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, 2023 – June 30, 2024 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+
Keli and Mark Mondello
Life’s Requite, Inc
Lynn and Robert Donaldson
Francis & Gertrude Levett Foundation
Shanna and Bryan Glazer
The Drexel Fund
Debbie and Joel Momberg
The Lightning Foundation
Guardian Trust
Community Foundation Tampa Bay
Patty and Tim Brundage
Andrea Graham and Geoffrey Simon
Dennie Masterson
Stephanie and Stephen Flagg
Raymund Foundation, Inc.
Beth Walters and Michael Babich
PwC
$15,000 -$24,999
AbleTrust Foundation
KAST Construction Achievement Centers For Children & Families
Foundation
American Legion Post 273 - Madeira Beach
Nancy and Bill Peters
Erich Lichtenberger
$10,000 - $14,999
Joanie and Kevin Gallagher
Jessica and Michael Corcoran
City Wide Facility Solutions
Cindy and Steven Howerton
Candice and Courtney Ryan
Fred Clark
Lorie and Tony Faulkner
Catherine and Michael Dastoor
Bruce Johnson
Tara and Cory Gaffney
Jan and Craig Sher
TriplePoint Design Build
Copperhead Charities
Altamont Capital
$5,000 - $9,999
Michael Conley
The Hambrick Foundation
Carol and Leonard Venckus
Kristy Schulhof
Lauren and Neal Fiske
Lizabeth Moses and Rene Villeneuve
Ashley and William Nall
Judith and Larry Bellack
Brundage Group
Lynda and Barry Spofford
UBS MATCH PROGRAM
Nicole and Lee Pearlman
Max Geller
Katie and Shawn Naugle
George Bursac
Jane and William Floyd
Angela and Kevin Hawkins
Rays Rowdies Baseball Foundation, Inc.
Corcoran Partners
Crown Automotive | Charities Hawkins Family Foundation
Julie and Matthew Rich
Skanska USA Building Inc
Kristine and Jason Melachrino
Robert Brust
Richard Even
Lee and Steve Stratton
Patti and Tony Baldino
Janssen Pharmaceutical, Johnson & Johnson
Judy Genshaft and Steve Greenbaum
Linda and Joe McBeth
Carrie Simon
Kim and Tom Bernat
Gabrielle Mondello
Kimberly and Michael Kuruzovich
Diana Guenthardt
Jean and Dave Cantu
Cherry and Patrick Mullen
Eric Gates
Margie Joy Green
Kris Kelly
Carol Lane
Stephanie and Martin Morris
Jackie and William Muir, Jr.
Erika and Matthew Nord
Debbie and Brent Sembler
Sheila and Maurice Van Zoolingen
Raymond James
Stewart Title Guaranty Company
BayMed Hair and Aesthetics
ISI Demolition
$1,000 - $4,999
Jodi and John Sittig
Andrea and Colby Masterson
Richard Kantner
Monica and Douglas Taylor
James Messina
Mary Alice and Patrick Walsh
Michelle and George Jallo
Eric Checkoway
Nicole Devlin
Derek Fain
John Fanning
Shivani Gupta
Brandon Hawkins
Bryan Heinze
Denise Jack
Summer Keatley
John Knapp
Denise Lingenfelter
Kevin McDonald
Jennifer Nichols
DONOR THANK YOU CONT.
K S Pringle
Crishana Runge
Grant Schnabel
Karl Soderquist
Michael Ventura
Charlee Wallace
Homeowners Financial Group
Victoria Dols
Cody McCarroll
Tom Donegan
Diane and Jeffrey Roberts
Rhonda and William Amoroso
Amy and Sean Maguire
Tina and James Sykes
Paige and Michael Campbell
Stavros Papandreou
Insperity
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital
Suncoast Credit Union
Courtney and Mike Mahaz
Laurie and Glenn Lyle
Marylou and Joe Bourdow
Olivia and Justin Koenen
Susan and Mark McGarry
Tiffany and Rick Larson
Eileen and Gregory Pater
Tawna Schilling
Weisser Elazar & Kantor PLLC
Tammy and Dan Boldt
Denise and Richard Mastry
Jeffrey Paonessa
David Bair
Becky and Dewey Mitchell
Tanya and Rodney Veitschegger
CLA Foundation
The Jane Floyd Team of NFM Lending
Pharmetric Laboratory
Crabby Bill’s
Shaun Cummings
Sharon Gigliotti
Steven Taylor
Debra and Bob Maxwell
Thaddeus Bullard
Aegon Transamerica Foundation, St. Pete
Clair Management, Inc.
Mark Burman
Target Circle Community Giving
The Bank of Tampa
Amy and Ron Ruffner
Clare Davenport
TEGNA Foundation
Brandon Makowski
Timur Aydin
Linda and Jeff Busch
Rabbi Betsy and Rabbi Michael Torop
Kelley and Mark Fratoni
Shannon and Aaron Swift
Jodi and Bart Cully
Kate and Kyle Masterson
Layce and Adam Berry
Drew Revitzer
Tracey Strube
Christopher Lenhart
Frey Masterson & Associates Investment Advisors
Wendy and Michael Addessi
Donald Jowdy
Kyle Taylor
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Addessi Financial Partners
Beth Dillinger Foundation
Romp n’ Roll St. Petersburg
BDA Systems Co.
Sloan Design Fl, Inc.
Suncoast Prosperity Advisors
Joseph Schrage
Cherra and Chadwick Wammock
Kimberely Davis
Sarah and David Wallace
Kevin Moss
Scott Harms
Emily and Thomas Cetta
Eric Beck
Girish Gehani
Christine and Brendan Farrell
Frank Marcinkus
Tracy and Mike Young
Kim and Keith Dudley
Kim and John Duffy
Stephanie and Lawrence Goodman
Todd Jacobson
Michael Jennings
Julia Klaiber
Lucien Tender
Sarah and Bill Wood
Mike Zondlo
BCH Mechanical
Coastal Fence and Railing
Lauren and Shaun Salzberg
Charles Resing
Vicki Mazur
Kevin Keller
Connor Deitz
Danielle Dietz
Caleb Bentix
Lynn Alloy
Dawn Shields
Eli Bedran
Lauren and Doug Carlan
Julie and Chris Davis
Shannon Eichberg
Jimmy Fang
Matthew Frey
Brenna Hooker
Tina Otta and Bobby Katz
Mary Kenealy
Patty and Mark Laprade
Shing Yip Leung
Jim Marshall
Lashawne Meriwether
Allessandro and Adriana Parimbelli
