Add Row 
Add 
Celebrating a Decade of Inclusion: Rising Tide Car Wash
In 2015, a simple yet profound vision came to life in Florida with the opening of Rising Tide Car Wash. Founded by John D’Eri, this unique car wash set its mission to create meaningful employment opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum. Fast forward ten years, and the ambition has bloomed into a movement, now operating across four locations with a workforce of 90 neurodivergent adults who proudly wash, buff, and wax cars in Margate, Parkland, Coral Springs, and soon, Pompano Bay.
Breaking Barriers Through Employment
The vision behind Rising Tide was fueled by the love of a father for his son, Andrew, who is autistic. D’Eri expressed a desire for his son to find purpose and community after high school—a sentiment echoed by many parents. “I don’t want him to sit in a room taken care of by others once I’m gone,” D’Eri stated in an earlier interview. Those words not only carved a path for Andrew and countless others on the spectrum but also sparked a nationwide conversation about employment accessibility for neurodiverse individuals.
Creating Meaningful Connections
Beyond just providing jobs, Rising Tide fosters an environment where individuals feel valued and find companionship. Employees like Ryan Brodie feel empowered, sharing, “The best thing about having a job is that I make so much money.” This highlights not just the economic benefits of employment but also the joy of contributing to a team and community—a critical component in the lives of those who may experience social isolation.
A Model for Neurodiversity Employment
The success of Rising Tide is a shining example of how businesses can adapt to create inclusive workplaces. As noted by Michelle Hintz, a psychologist, there’s a clear sense of satisfaction in the arc of achieving a clean car—from its dirty beginnings through to its sparkling finish. “It’s so easy for me,” Ryan adds, emphasizing how the work resonates with his skills and interests. This practical approach to employment generates independence and, consequently, inspires similar initiatives across other locales.
The Ripple Effect of Inclusion
This car wash, which started with just 35 employees, has become a beacon for social change. As it embarks on its fourth location, Rising Tide exemplifies not just growth but also the importance of community-focused initiatives that uplift everyone involved. Their journey underscores a hopeful understanding that when neurodivergent individuals are given the chance to succeed, it benefits all citizens—not just those employed, but society as a whole.
What’s Next for Rising Tide?
As Rising Tide prepares to expand, one can only wonder what more can be achieved in the next decade. Will we see more businesses adopting similar models, and how can communities work together to support this movement? With every car washed and every employee empowered, Rising Tide stands as a testament to what can happen when opportunities are presented—and barriers washed away.
Join the conversation surrounding inclusion and employment for neurodiverse individuals. Together, we can encourage more businesses to follow in these impactful footsteps!
Write A Comment