Jupiter, Fla. – The finishing touches are being placed on the new Golf Pro Shop Vocational Lab Powered by ClubsHelp at The Els Center of Excellence in Jupiter, Florida. The first phase of the project, a fully functioning stock room, has been completed, allowing Els for Autism students to train in a realistic retail environment.
Upon full completion later this summer, the Vocational Lab will also include a simulated golf pro shop created in partnership with ProCraft. These components will serve as hands-on training grounds where students will learn key retail competencies, including inventory management, merchandise display, customer interaction, and more.
“By providing real-world training opportunities in a supportive environment, the new lab empowers students to build confidence, develop professional habits and pursue meaningful employment,” explained Dr. Robin Jones, Associate Director of Adult Services of Els for Autism.
These new facilities are a testing ground for ClubsHelp’s Driving Inclusion initiative, which is designed to support the club and golf industry’s labor issues.
“We recognize the challenges that golf clubs frequently face in hiring and retaining reliable hourly wage employees—especially for roles that demand consistency, attention to detail, and dependability,” said Rob Goulet, President, ClubsHelp. “This project aims to highlight the unique benefits of tapping into the rich talent pool of neurodiverse workers.”
By considering individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodiverse conditions, golf clubs can address their growing staffing demands while leveraging the strengths that neurodiverse workers often bring, such as strong focus, reliability, attention to detail, and a commitment to routine.
Goulet added that the Driving Inclusion program not only addresses workforce challenges but could result in targeted tax incentives and other economic advantages while fostering a culture of inclusivity.
Generous support from golf industry companies has furnished and stocked the Vocational Lab, including Srixon | XXIO | Cleveland, Bobby Jones & Sunice Apparel, ProCraft, Peacock & Lewis, Ashworth, LOHLA Sport and Ahead.
Caroline Bassarab, director of retail for Reynolds Lake Oconee and two-time PGA of America Merchandiser of the Year, has volunteered her time to oversee the design and merchandising of the lab.
For additional information about the Vocational Lab or the Driving Inclusion initiative, contact Chris Swan of ClubsHelp at chris@clubshelp.org.
About ClubsHelp
Formed in 2020 as a network and resource for golf clubs to help their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, ClubsHelp has evolved into a national network of golf and country clubs. This 501(c)3 foundation has expanded its mission to support causes and the needs of the golf industry.
About Els for Autism Foundation
Established in 2009 by World Golf Hall of Famer Ernie Els, his wife Liezl, and honorary chairman Marvin R. Shanken, the Els for Autism Foundation is dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their caregivers through comprehensive lifespan services and collaborative partnerships. Els for Autism has provided services to families and professionals in 38 countries around the globe. In addition to its U.S. location, Els for Autism has foundations in Canada, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.
Els for Autism Foundation is a US public charity (EIN #26-3520396), recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as exempt from Federal tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the tax code. Donations can be made online at www.elsforautism.org and by check (made payable to ‘Els for Autism’) and addressed to: Els for Autism, Attn: Development Team, 18370 Limestone Creek Rd, Jupiter, FL 33458.
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