Car wash in Florida provides opportunities for people with autism

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. (CBS, KYMA/KECY) - It can be a challenge for people with autism to find employment opportunities but one business in Florida is providing those much needed opportunities.

17-year-old Edward Cruz says working at Rising Tide Car Wash in Coral Springs, Florida is more than just a job. It's an opportunity that's not always easy to come by.

"Majority of our staff is on the autism spectrum. I'm on the autism spectrum," Cruz shared.

People with autism experience high unemployment rates. A 2017 National Institute of Health study put it at about 40% while other estimates show it can be as high as 80%.

"I'm really proud to be here. I'm happy with what the company does. It really does make a difference," Cruz expressed.

Thomas D'Eri and his father started Rising Tide to give D'Eri's younger brother Andrew, who has autism, and others like him a chance to thrive.

"It became clear quickly that we would have to take action for Andrew to lead the full adult life he was capable of. Today, he has friends a community, money in his pocket and it's brought our family together," D'Eri shared.

Rising Tide has more than 100 employees across three locations, and over 80% have autism.

"Not only are they gonna do as good as a job as any other car wash, but they're gonna exceed expectation because our team wants to be here and really satisfy the customer," D'Eri explained.

Andrew says his favorite part of work is the tire shine, the car wash has become a place where he's learned valuable skills, and found friends.

"This is great. The customers are really nice to me. They give us money," Andrew remarked.

Rising Tide is expanding with another location in Florida set to open later this year.