Stanley Black & Decker Chair Takes Helm at Els for Autism, Cementing Major Philanthropic Partnership

JUPITER, Fla. – February 17, 2026 – The Els for Autism Foundation today announced a significant leadership transition, appointing Donald (Don) Allan Jr., Executive Chair of Stanley Black & Decker, as its new board chair. The appointment formalizes a years-long relationship that has seen Allan and the iconic tool and industrial company become pivotal champions of the foundation’s work, blending corporate social responsibility with a deep personal commitment to the autism community.

Allan’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to steer the foundation, co-founded by World Golf Hall of Famer Ernie Els, into its next phase of global growth. It represents the culmination of a partnership that has already delivered millions of dollars in funding and tangible, on-the-ground resources for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

A Partnership Forged on the Green

Allan's journey with Els for Autism began not in a boardroom, but on the golf course. He was first introduced to the non-profit through its annual Golf Challenge, a nationwide series of regional fundraising events. While familiar with the organization's famous co-founder, Allan's deeper discovery of the foundation's mission at The Els Center of Excellence® in Jupiter, Florida, proved to be a turning point.

"I was aware of Ernie Els and his golf career and watched him flourish and achieve everything he did on the golf course," Allan stated. "However, I was not aware of what was happening in Florida to support the autism community."

This realization sparked a personal passion that quickly translated into corporate action. This trajectory, where a CEO's personal engagement drives corporate philanthropy, exemplifies a growing trend in the business world. Allan's extensive philanthropic record, which includes board positions at the University of Hartford, Hartford HealthCare, and AdvanceCT, demonstrates a long-standing commitment to community service that now finds a powerful new focus.

From Sponsorship to Tangible Investment

The initial connection through golf rapidly evolved into a substantial, multi-faceted partnership. Impressed by the life-changing programs offered at the Center of Excellence, Allan spearheaded the effort to make Stanley Black & Decker a national sponsor of the Els for Autism Golf Challenge in 2023. But the support didn't stop at sponsorship.

The company soon made a $100,000 donation to establish a dedicated vocational lab within the Stoops Family Adult Services Building. The Stanley Black & Decker Lab, fully outfitted with the company’s tools and equipment, provides autistic adults with hands-on training in carpentry and woodworking—practical skills for future employment.

This commitment was further amplified by a landmark $5 million pledge to name the gymnasium in the forthcoming Specialized Autism Friendly Recreation Complex. The state-of-the-art facility, which broke ground in 2025 and is slated to open in spring 2027, is designed to be a haven for individuals with sensory sensitivities.

This deep investment aligns perfectly with Stanley Black & Decker’s own ESG strategy, particularly its "Empowering Makers" pillar, which aims to upskill 10 million creators by 2030. Allan connected this corporate philosophy directly to his new role. "One of the things I have always said about Stanley Black & Decker is that there are three things that make this company great: our people, our brands, and the innovation we bring to our end users," Allan shared. "But it starts with the people... people who are truly invested in our company, our community, and each other."

He added, "When I think about community and being invested in one another, autism has a huge place in that discussion. It's about asking how we ensure we're not leaving anyone behind and how we help everyone succeed in some way, shape, or form."

Addressing a Critical Gap in Adult Autism Services

Stanley Black & Decker’s targeted investments address one of the most pressing challenges facing the autism community: a severe lack of services and opportunities for adults. Research consistently shows staggering unemployment and underemployment rates for autistic adults, with some studies indicating rates as high as 85%. Many who do find work are in roles that don't utilize their full skills or potential.

The Stanley Black & Decker Lab is a direct response to this crisis. By providing vocational training in skilled trades, it offers a clear pathway to meaningful employment and greater independence. This hands-on approach provides not just skills but also confidence, helping to bridge the gap between an individual's potential and the opportunities available in the workforce.

Similarly, the $5 million pledge for the recreation complex tackles another critical need. The complex will be the first sports facility in the United States built to ASPECTSS® standards—a research-based design framework specifically for autism that minimizes sensory overload. For many autistic individuals, typical gyms and sports centers can be overwhelming. This new complex, with its specialized design and programs like basketball, yoga, and aquatics, will provide a safe and supportive environment for physical fitness, social engagement, and recreation—all vital components of a full and healthy life.

Strategic Leadership for an Expanding Legacy

Founded in 2009 by Ernie and Liezl Els alongside Marvin R. Shanken, the Els for Autism Foundation was born from the Els family’s personal journey following their son Ben’s autism diagnosis. Their vision was to create a world-class center that could serve as a global hub for research, services, and support.

With Allan’s appointment as board chair, that vision gains a powerful new advocate with the strategic acumen to guide the foundation's next chapter. His extensive experience in corporate leadership and his proven ability to mobilize resources are expected to be invaluable as the organization seeks to expand its global impact.

Ernie Els expressed his enthusiasm for the new leadership. "On behalf of Marvin Shanken and my wife, Liezl, we are deeply grateful for the years of support Don has already given," said the four-time Major Champion. "As board chair, we are confident his leadership will help us continue serving more families around the world impacted by autism."

With a solid foundation, a state-of-the-art campus, and now a seasoned corporate leader at the helm of its board, Els for Autism is positioned to accelerate its mission. The partnership underscores a modern philanthropic model where corporate power and personal passion combine to create lasting, tangible change and advance the goal of a world of limitless possibilities for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families.