As Haitian Heritage Month continues, Lixon Nelson is being recognized for his work advancing disability inclusion, workforce development, and economic empowerment throughout South Florida.
Born in Port-au-Prince and raised in the United States, Nelson is the CEO and co-founder of Alliance Community and Employment Services, also known as ACES. Through the organization, he has helped individuals with disabilities gain access to workforce training, life-skills development, and employment opportunities.
Nelson’s advocacy is deeply personal. Living with both a learning disability and Crohn’s disease, he said his own experiences shaped his commitment to creating opportunities for others facing barriers.
“I wouldn’t say I’ve fully overcome these challenges, but I’ve adapted by learning new tools and strategies,” Nelson said. “With my Crohn’s Disease, I adjusted my diet, increased my hydration, and came to understand how my gut health affects my focus. Similarly, with my learning disability, I adapted by seeking different learning techniques and staying focused on my goals. These experiences have deepened my commitment to advocating for others, as I know firsthand how crucial it is to adapt and persevere.”
Nelson said his Haitian upbringing also played a major role in shaping the mission behind ACES.
“My cultural background has been the bedrock of my mission,” he said. “Growing up in a resilient, hard-working Haitian community, I was surrounded by people who value perseverance and a commitment to uplifting others. That sense of shared strength drives my work with ACES every day.”
The organization operates around three core principles — Educate, Expose, and Experience — which Nelson said form the foundation of ACES’ work with clients.
During Haitian Heritage Month, Nelson said he hopes to encourage greater unity, inclusion, and opportunity within Haitian and Caribbean communities.
“During Haitian Heritage Month, I want to remind our community of the powerful Haitian proverb on our flag: ‘L’union fait la force’ together, we stand,” he said. “I believe that by uniting, we can uplift our Haitian and Caribbean communities, both here and abroad.”
Nelson also referenced the influence of historical figures such as Marcus Garvey and Booker T. Washington on his philosophy surrounding education and economic empowerment.
“At ACES, we are committed to inclusion, economic empowerment, and education as we build a stronger future together,” he added.
Among the stories Nelson says best reflects the organization’s impact is that of Michael Arbitman, one of ACES’ earliest clients.
“One of the most pivotal moments that shaped ACES was meeting Dr. Michael Arbitman,” Nelson said. “He came to us because, though he was legally blind, employers admired his professional background yet failed to provide the accommodations he needed. Still, he kept pushing forward, never complaining, always staying strong as a husband and father.”
Nelson said the partnership eventually led to the co-founding of I Am Unique and the creation of Blind Tech.
“His perseverance was a turning point for me; he became one of ACES’ first clients, a lifelong friend, and a business partner,” Nelson said.
Nelson also offered advice to young people in Haitian and Caribbean communities facing obstacles.
“What I would tell them is this: be open to learning about other cultures,” he said. “Personal development is just as crucial as academic growth. By understanding different cultures, you grow personally and learn to interact with others, whether in personal relationships, business, or spiritual contexts.”
“Education is the key to success and to dismantling systemic barriers, so keep learning, stay curious, and value everyone’s unique background,” he added.
Nelson immigrated to the United States with his family at the age of two and later earned a degree in Business Management from State University of New York Canton. In 2009, he co-founded ACES alongside his late colleague Joe Graham.
Beyond his work with ACES, Nelson serves as a Disability Diplomat and president of the Marcus Mosiah Garvey Organization of South Florida under the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League. He is also affiliated with the Black MBA Association, Florida Rising, and the Small Business Leadership Committee in Washington, D.C.
Nelson is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Special Education Behavior Therapy as he continues advocating for greater access, equity, and representation for underserved communities.
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