about Us
William Franzi
Founder and Executive Director
William Franzi is the visionary founder and dedicated Executive Director of EmpowerASD. With an unwavering commitment to creating positive change in the lives of adults with autism, William has been the driving force behind the organization since its inception.
William’s journey began with a personal connection to autism, instilling in him a deep sense of purpose. He recognized the untapped potential of individuals on the autism spectrum and saw an opportunity to empower them through IT skills training.
With a background in IT & Business Development, William brought a unique blend of expertise to the table. He firmly believes that every individual, regardless of neurodiversity, deserves the opportunity to thrive in our technology-driven world.
Under his leadership, EmpowerASD has grown from a vision to a thriving nonprofit, transforming countless lives through tailored IT skills training. William’s dedication, passion, and tireless efforts continue to inspire the team, partners, and supporters who share in his mission of creating a brighter, more inclusive future.
Zachary Franzi
Director of Programs
Zachary Franzi serves as our Director of Programs at EmpowerASD, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to our mission of empowering adults with autism. His dedication to fostering independence and creating opportunities for our program participants is truly inspiring.
Zachary’s journey into the world of autism empowerment was deeply influenced by his brother, William Franzi, the founder of EmpowerASD. Witnessing the transformative power of IT skills training on individuals with autism, Zachary decided to dedicate his career to this important cause.
With a background in Business Development & Gaming, Zachary is well-equipped to oversee and enhance our programs. His leadership ensures that each program is tailored to the unique needs and abilities of our participants, providing them with the skills and confidence they need to thrive.
Zachary’s commitment to inclusivity and his tireless efforts to create a supportive learning environment have a profound impact on the success of our programs. He is a driving force in making our mission a reality, and his dedication reflects the core values of EmpowerASD.
Jeff Whitelaw
Director of strategic partnerships
Jeff Whitelaw is an integral part of the EmpowerASD team, serving as our Director of Strategic Partnerships. With a remarkable knack for forging partnerships and securing vital resources, Jeff plays a crucial role in advancing our mission of empowering adults with autism.
Jeff’s journey in the nonprofit sector has been marked by a passion for creating opportunities and making a positive impact. His commitment to our cause is deeply personal, as he has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of IT skills training on individuals with autism.
Bringing with him a wealth of experience in strategic partnerships and diversity, Jeff is instrumental in expanding our reach and impact. His strategic thinking and strong networking skills have paved the way for critical partnerships with organizations and individuals who share our vision.
As a dedicated fundraiser, Jeff works tirelessly to secure the resources that empower us to deliver our programs and services. His efforts are essential to ensuring that adults with autism have the support and opportunities they need to thrive in the IT industry.
Jeff’s enthusiasm, dedication, and ability to connect with supporters and partners are invaluable assets to EmpowerASD. He exemplifies our commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives of those on the autism spectrum.
Our team is united by a shared commitment to improving the lives of adults with autism through IT skills training. Together, we work tirelessly to create an inclusive learning environment and empower our participants to achieve their full potential.