BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. — More than five million adults between the ages of 18 and 65 in the United States are on the autism spectrum. In Florida alone, that number reaches roughly 320,000. Yet for many, finding steady employment remains a major challenge—about 80 percent are unemployed.
A South Florida family is working to change that.
Andrew D’Eri is in his mid-30s and is caring, kind and a dedicated worker. But like many adults on the spectrum, he struggled to find a job in his early 20s. His brother, Thomas D’Eri, saw firsthand how limited opportunities were holding Andrew back.
“It became really clear really quickly that in order for him to lead the full adult life that we knew he was capable of, we were going to have to take action,” Thomas said.
Fresh out of business school, Thomas teamed up with his parents to buy a car wash. Their goal wasn’t just to employ Andrew, it was to create opportunities for others like him.
That idea became Rising Tide Car Wash.
Since opening in 2013, the company has grown to three locations in Parkland, Margate and Coral Springs, employing more than 90 individuals on the autism spectrum. Even more notably, more than 250 employees have gone on to secure jobs elsewhere after working there.
“Businesses like ours are an on-ramp into the workforce for many people with autism,” Thomas explained.
The model is intentional. At Rising Tide, systems are designed to be clear, structured, and easy to follow—an approach that plays to the strengths of many individuals on the spectrum.
“We design our systems to be really clear, really simple to use,” Thomas said. “It’s very process-driven and tangible.”
“You come to a car wash—you know pretty quickly whether you got good service. The car is either clean or it’s not,” Thomas added.
That clarity helps employees build confidence and pride in their work. It also fosters a strong sense of community.
“Everyone here is really close—like friends,” said employee Luke Zenda. “We’re able to work well together and handle day-to-day operations.”
Andrew agrees. “I like working with my friends here a lot,” he said.
For customers, the experience is just as meaningful. Employees greet them warmly, take pride in their service, and create an environment that feels both welcoming and genuine.
The impact extends beyond the workplace. For the D’Eri family, the business has strengthened personal bonds as well.
“I get to work with my family every day. I get to work with my brother really closely,” Thomas said. “We’ve grown tremendously in our relationship, and honestly, car washing is awesome.”
At a time when many companies struggle to find reliable workers, Rising Tide is thriving. The demand for its services—and its mission—continues to grow.
The company is now preparing to open a fourth location in Pompano Beach, expanding its reach and creating even more opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum.
For families like the D’Eris, it’s proof that with the right approach, inclusion isn’t just possible—it’s powerful.
In addition to being the CEO of Rising Tide Car Wash, Thomas D’Eri is also the author of the best-selling book, “The Power of Potential,” published by Harper Collins Leadership, a book that highlights employment opportunities for individuals with autism and addresses common challenges businesses face.
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