Johnny didn’t think college was in the cards for him, until a campus visit through Futures in Focus changed his mind. He’s one of hundreds of students across Florida who are finding new purpose and pathways through this statewide partnership between The Able Trust and the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations.
Last year, more than 600 students across nine counties explored college campuses, toured local industries, and connected with Florida Department of Education Vocational Rehabilitation representatives—each experience helping them picture their own bright future. Three projects in particular, in Brevard, Alachua, and Martin counties, show the heart of this statewide effort.
Brevard: Finding Hope and Independence
For Brevard Schools Foundation’s “Focusing on the Future: BLASTing Towards Independence,” the goal was simple yet profound—help students with disabilities imagine what life could look like after graduation. Through college visits and workplace tours, that goal became reality.
“Before this project, most of our students didn’t know what they wanted to do after school,” said a teacher from the BLAST program. “Now they see more possibilities for themselves—and they’re setting goals.”
Students visited the University of Central Florida and Indian River State College’s inclusive programs, where they met peers with similar experiences. One student, Johnny, left inspired: “I never thought I could go to college. That would be so cool! Then I can get a real job and an apartment!”
For Johnny, and so many others, the experience sparked self-advocacy, independence, and hope for the future.
Alachua: Adapting for Opportunity
The Education Foundation of Alachua County’s “Inclusive Pathways” project combined creativity, collaboration, and community connections to empower students with disabilities. While an original plan to raise chickens was changed due to avian flu, students adapted—incubating eggs, caring for chicks, and turning the challenge into a lesson in problem-solving and leadership.
They also toured the University of Florida’s Disability Resource and Career Centers, learning about college accommodations and internships. “Talking to all the people about the different things to do in college was my favorite part,” said student Cody.
Perhaps most inspiring was the project’s ripple effect: the chicks found a new home in the district’s Farm to School program, linking multiple educational and career pathways together—a perfect example of local innovation with lasting impact.
Martin: Exploration for Success
In Martin County, the Education Foundation’s “Exploration for Success” project gave students a firsthand look at college and career possibilities. Visits to Indian River State College, Florida Atlantic University, and a local hospital allowed students to explore healthcare, hospitality, and technical careers while practicing communication and teamwork skills.
One student, Brayden, reflected, “The kitchen at the hospital was so busy! Everyone was working together. Maybe I could do something like that someday.”
Through these experiences, 83% of participants reported a greater understanding of their post-graduation options—proof that early exposure can transform uncertainty into motivation.
Because of The Able Trust’s partnership, hundreds of Florida students with disabilities are finding their voice, purpose, and path to independence. Together with local education foundations, these experiences are helping students—and families—see what’s possible.
At the Consortium, we believe our collective future depends on strong public schools and inclusive opportunities for every learner. Futures in Focus is helping make that vision a reality—one student, one community, and one partnership at a time.
