Rising Tide Car Wash: Shining Opportunities

Cover photo of a man washing a silver car with a water hose. Suds are streaming off of the car and along the pavement.

According to the CDC, as of 2023, around 75 million people have autism spectrum disorder in the U.S. That’s 1% of the world’s population. One in 36 children, or over 2.7% of 8-year-old children, in the U.S. were diagnosed with ASD in 2020.

The statistics show there are many potential workers, people with autism, around the country. However, the unemployment rate is so high among this population it seems that our culture is struggling to make room in the job force. What do people do when employment opportunities are rare? What can you do when the jobs near home aren’t hiring?

Today we want to share a success story of how one family answered these questions. This heartwarming, inspiring story caught my attention on a cold Saturday morning. It begins with a father trying to create a practical future for his autistic son and ends up turning into so much more. These rays of change stretching across the future started in sunny Florida.

John D’Eri watched his son Andrew struggle to find his place in the world. As Andrew grew up, John began to observe that although he was becoming a very skilled young man, there were not many opportunities for him after he was out of the school. John spent time contemplating what Andrew would do when he was no longer there to support him.

Then in 2011, the D’Eri family decided to start Rising Tide Car Wash. John became the founder and CEO of this new venture in support of his son’s future. Since no one was hiring, he created an employment opportunity.

The family realized that it is difficult, not just for Andrew, but for many people with autism to get employment. Knowing this, they have hired more people on the autism spectrum…80 employees to be exact! Employees have been offered promotional opportunities in this growing company over the last year.

Photo of a man's Caucasian hand washing a dark colored vehicle with a yellow sponge and lots of soapy water — Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

You may be imagining that they have succeeded despite their unusual workforce ratio. However, Rising Tide’s success is actually attributed to their unique team. By creating the organization’s processes and culture around the needs of the team, they have been able to achieve the highest standards in service, quality, and overall success.

Rising Tide Carwash now owns three locations in Florida: Parkland, Margate, and Coral Springs. Three car washes washing over a half a million cars annually! It was reported that when they launched their second location they actually achieved operational success after only two months. If you ever visit the sunshine state, stop by and see them. They offer a free vacuum with every vehicle wash!

The D’Eri’s expectation is that everyone sees the happy, engaged, professional employees that work there and the great service they provide daily. Their wish is that this will inspire others and hopefully create more employment opportunities for people with Autism.

The saying ”a rising tide lifts all boats” came to mind when I think of this car wash. This phrase is usually associated with economics, however, I think it can demonstrate what an important role each person plays in the workplace as well. Consider your co-workers as “boats.” When you “raise your tide” or give your very best with the best attitude you can, you will “lift” all the “boats” you work alongside. From everything I have read and heard this is the perfect name for the car wash bringing waves of change. Rising Tide Carwash has found treasure in a before untapped workforce in their neighborhoods. Hardworking employees have found meaningful work and a place in their community.

Consider how your community could benefit from a similar model. What small business can you help someone launch? What needs are not being met in your neighborhood? When we work together, combining our strengths, the community benefits.