At first glance, Rising Tide Car Wash might seem like just another place to get your car cleaned, but behind the suds and soap is a powerful mission: providing employment and a sense of purpose for adults with autism.
Family builds a business with a mission
Andrew D’eri says this Rising Tide Car Wash is his life. He is the reason why it exists. His family started it to give Andrew a working life after he was done with school. Tom is his brother.
“My brother Andrew is on the autism spectrum, and when he was in high school it became really clear really quickly that in order for him to live the full adult life that we knew he was capable of, we would have to take action,” Tom said.
Turning action into opportunity
Action turned into three car wash locations and 90 staff members who are neurodivergent — making neurotypical the abnormal.
“Everybody fits in here because we really are intentional about building psychological safety and belonging,” Tom explained.
Work that pays off
Ryan Brodie also works there. He says, “I like working on the cars because it’s so easy for me.” He’ll also tell you the salary isn’t bad either…