I had been searching for work for months without success. With ACES' help, I not only found a job but also one that matched my skills and interests. Their team guided me through the application process, prepared me for interviews, and supported me every step of the way.
Our impact
Measured in careers, confidence, and independence
These are the words of the people ACES serves — participants, parents, and the employers who hire them.
- 10+
- Lixon Nelson has led employment work for over a decade.
- 8
- Delivered to students ages 14–21 across Miami-Dade and Broward.
- 2
- Miami and Broward, running June through August 2026.
- 1:6
- Individualized attention and safety at every ACES camp.
ACES is compiling verified placement, retention, and participant numbers for publication here. Only figures the organization can evidence are shown — we do not estimate.
In their words
What people say about ACES
Every quote below comes from a real participant, parent, or employer partner.
ACES Client As a parent, I can truly say that Mr. Nelson cared for my son as if he were his own brother, and that compassion made all the difference. My son worked at HomeGoods for three years, but when he lost his job due to transportation issues, I went back to Vocational Rehabilitation and specifically asked to work with Mr. Nelson again. He helped place my son in a new position that he now loves and sees as a true career opportunity, and he continues to grow in his independence.
Mother of an ACES Client ACES provided ongoing job coaching for one of our new hires, and it made all the difference. Their team made sure the transition went smoothly, and now we have a fantastic employee who's thriving in their role.
Local Business Partner Before ACES, I wasn't sure what kind of job I could do. Through their pre-placement training and mentoring, I learned how to communicate better, practice interview skills, and build my confidence. Now I'm working part-time and planning for my future.
ACES Career Camp Youth Client
What changes
The difference between a placement and a path
A job that fits, not just a job
We match candidates to roles that suit their skills, interests, and career goals — working closely with inclusive employers rather than filling vacancies.
Support that outlasts the start date
Job coaching continues on site after placement, fading gradually as confidence and independence grow.
Families brought into the process
Parents and caregivers are part of the plan, not observers of it — particularly across our transition youth services.
Employers who come back
Partners including CVS and UPS have continued to open competitive roles to ACES participants.
Work readiness
Self-advocacy
Peer mentoring
Work-based learning
Partnerships
Impact is a shared effort
ACES works alongside state and federal programs, national training bodies, and employers who are ready to hire inclusively.
Employer partners named in our work include .
Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Social Security Administration
Customized employment training
Add your story
Have you worked with ACES?
Participants, families, and employers: we would like to hear how it went — and share it here if you are willing.