At Els for Autism, we recognize that transitioning to adulthood can present unique challenges and opportunities for individuals with ASD. Our commitment to research and evidence-based practices underscores the importance of addressing the needs of autistic adults to ensure continued learning, community engagement, and a productive and healthy lifestyle.
Through our continuum of accessible services, we support and empower adults on the spectrum with diverse needs. Our Adult Services aim to foster independence, confidence, and a sense of purpose by capitalizing on each person’s strengths, needs, and interests.
Central to our approach is a transdisciplinary team that collaborates to develop and implement personalized programming and interventions. We believe in providing the highest standard of care and support to each adult with ASD we serve. Our services provide lifespan instruction to help adults successfully transition to all aspects of life by providing programs in Independent Living, Employment, Social and Recreation.
In 2023, we opened the Stoops Family Adult Services Building on our campus, a 21,000-square-foot building designed to meet the needs of autistic adults.
Employment Programs
Our Employment Programs are tailored for adults with ASD and other developmental disabilities ages 18+ who have exited the school system. These programs are designed to facilitate career exploration and the acquisition and maintenance of integrated and competitive employment. The services encompass self-advocacy, employability skills training, and job coaching to aid in job development, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and retention.
Independent Living Programs
The Els for Autism Independent Living Programs are designed to support adults with ASD and other developmental disabilities, ages 18 and older, in achieving independence and living meaningful, fulfilling lives. Our programs provide evidence-based learning experiences on our campus and within the community, focusing on developing and practicing essential skills such as socialization, recreation, and safety.
One of our key independent living offerings is the Adult Day Training (ADT) Program, which is tailored to provide participants with a variety of engaging activities, both on campus at The Els Center of Excellence and in the community. These activities include outings to recreation centers, parks, restaurants, swimming pools, and grocery stores. By capitalizing on individuals’ unique strengths and using the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA), Els for Autism creates a supportive environment that fosters learning, self-determination, and personal growth. Our goal is to help participants develop the skills they need to lead independent and fulfilling lives through our comprehensive Independent Living Programs.
Social and Recreation Programs
Our Social and Recreation Programs are designed to encourage social interaction and cultivate healthy lifestyles for adults with ASD and other developmental disabilities. These programs encompass various activities conducted on our campus, in the community, and virtually. Programs include but are not limited to:
- The Spoken Wheel Society – A social group for adults with ASD
- Recreation Programs (e.g., golf, tennis, fitness, yoga)
Therapy Services
The Programs and Services team offers a therapy services that cover the lifespan of individuals with ASD and other developmental disabilities, including:
Care Coordination
The Adult Services Care Coordinator assists in program selection and intakes, identifies and helps clients and families mitigate barriers to services, helps families navigate autism-specific resources, and creates, manages, and leads a culturally appropriate outreach plan to promote, engage, and expand our adult programs to underserved and ethnically diverse communities.
Adult Services Supporters
Transform a Life by Giving to Connor & Friends Care
Connor Sturgis, Els for Autism Advisory Board member launched a campaign to raise $100,000 to support the programs and services that Els for Autism provides to adults with ASD. He knows firsthand the importance of great programs to support inclusion and independence.
Join Connor and his friends in supporting all those benefiting from the programs and services offered by Els for Autism in the Stoops Family Adult Services Building, community, and through virtual programming around the world.
Financial assistance is reserved for clients enrolled in programs and services at Els for Autism. Complete the Financial Aid Application here.
