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Step 1: Determine individuals skills and areas of need. Can individual life on own? Do they need additional support and services?

Step 2: Find appropriate housing options and apply.

Step 3: Find additional support services if needed.

Step 4: Appy for financial support such as Section 8 and SSI.

Step 5: Continue to work on strengthening individuals skills and areas of need.

Step 6: When housing is ready....move in!

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Once you have applied for housing, you have an indeterminate time period of anywhere from 3-12 years. This is not idle time. This is the time to build critical living skills.

Only about 40% of adults with autism will meet criteria for either Personal Care Attendant services, Adult Foster Care, Shared Living, or a group home. The balance will need to rely on their own skill set; free services provided by friends, families, and neighbors; and services paid for out of pocket.

Skills can be divided into four groups:

1. Skills you have mastered and use regularly;

2. Skills you are able to learn, but have not yet mastered or use regularly;

3. Skills you will always need help with; and

4. Skills that will always need to be done for you.

While you are waiting for housing, you have two goals:

Move as many skills as possible from group 2 to group 1; and

Create systems and supports to help with groups 3 and 4, and PRACTICE them.

Once you reach the top of a housing list, you should only need to generalize skills, systems, and supports to the new setting.

How do you get started? Consider using the modified Adolescent Autonomy Checklist and check out these posts and pages on our website:
Independent Living Skills, the horse that pulls the housing cart Skills for Living Technology

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Developing Living Skills - Autism Housing Pathways

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Once you have applied for housing, you have an indeterminate time period of anywhere from 3-12 years. This is not idle time. This is the time to build critical living skills. Only about 40% of adults with autism will meet criteria for either Personal Care Attendant services, Adult Foster Care, Shared Living, or a group home.

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Department of Developmental Disability (DDD) services:

Department of Rehabilitation

Regional Center

Funding options:

Section 8 voucher: Voucher for low income individuals who need housing assistance. Landlord must agree to be apart of the program. Individuals pay 1/3 of the rent based on their income.

Project-Based Section8 voucher: The individual living in a specific housing project will pay 1/3 of their rent. This voucher does not follow them, but is specific to the community (Autism Housing Pathways, 2024).

Link: https://autismhousingpathways.org/section-8-and-other-housing-subsidies-yes-this-does-apply-to-your-family-member/

Subsidized housing: houses for individuals with low income and are built by the government.

SSI- Supplemental security income: government funding that helps individuals with DDD.

Behavior service option:

Medi-Cal: Can help cover behavioral health treatments (BHT) for individuals under 21. This can include ABA and EBPs that prevent and help support behaviors. However, Medi-Cal can help pay for other medical services beyond age 21.

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A guide to housing assistance, what autism housing grants and programs are out there, and how families can get support services for their loved ones.

Today, I want to talk to you about a way to plan for the not too distant future of our children with autism. Specifically, housing assistance, what autism housing grants and programs are out there, and how families can get support services for their loved ones. To begin, I would like to share a scene from Mary's life, as I'm sure we can all relate to it.
Mary stood in front of Tommy, straightening the tie to his work uniform. She was almost as proud of him as he was. He had landed a job as a greeter at his favorite restaurant. He already knew everyone who worked there, they had been there for breakfast almost every day of his life since he was little. She knew he would love his first day. As she said goodbye to him, a bittersweet feeling came over her. He had accomplished so much, and come so far from that little two-year-old boy, first diagnosed with autism. As long as some days seemed to be, those years were short. Now he was fast approaching adulthood. Would it be enough? What would happen to him when she could no longer care for him?
The worries of a parent are many. The worries of a parent of a child with autism can be even more. Like Mary, all of us think about and try to plan for our children's future as best we can, we worry about how they will support themselves when we are no longer able to help. Things like autism housing grants are important to know, as we continue down the road, preparing our child for independent living.

Independent living

In most states in the US, a disabled adult can achieve independent living through affordable housing, financial assistance, their job, or a combination of residential services. Benefits are often extremely limited, and unfortunately many are not eligible. For those who are eligible, housing assistance in the form of housing programs may be available.

Know your rights

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), section 504, protections are made to prevent discrimination concerning housing for those with disabilities. This is an important truth for those looking into housing options.

Discrimination against those with disabilities is prohibited. Preventing them from building a house, renting a house or apartment, or making modifications to a rental to accommodate their needs (ramps, bathroom modifications, installing assistive devices, etc), on the basis of their disability is against the law.

Knowing the rights of people with disabilities is crucial to this process. Currently, autism is included in the list of disabilities.

Don't miss out on the Autism Parenting Summit.
Click here to sign up now!

Know your needs

Once you know the rights of you and your child, it's time to look into what kinds of housing options are available. Then you can determine what options will be appropriate for your child. Things to consider would be:

How independent is your child able to be? Do they have the skills and life experience to live independently?

What kind of home would best suit your child? Apartments, single family homes, or group homes can all be explored

How much financial assistance would your child require? Financial assistance usually takes into account individuals and families' income, including social security disability insurance and supplemental security income.

Would home ownership be a possibility? Home ownership is a big responsibility for anyone. The ability to continue to live in a family home that has been willed to them, could provide security for your adult child. If they maintain and provide for themselves in a home of their own, that could be a great option

Will they need rental assistance? For instance, do they have a job that will cover their living expenses, or will they need extra help to cover their rent

What setting could meet your child's needs best? For instance, more rural areas, or urban development

Thinking through questions such as those can help you figure out what program(s) to pursue.

Know your options

Finding out what options are available to your family member is where the true work begins. When it comes to financial resources the options may seem endless and limited all at once. It can be confusing, but there are ways to simplify the process.

Public housing authorities

A quick google search can help you find your local public housing authority. That is a great place to start to find out what programs are available, and if your child does or will qualify for benefits. Once you determine eligibility, you can find out what kind of housing assistance your child may need to find affordable housing, in a setting that is appropriate for their needs.

Housing grants for autism

The federal government provides assistance to people with disabilities. Supplemental security income (SSI) is public funding through the government, for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Housing grants for developers building homes for people with disabilities, in the state of Florida for instance, are awarded under the condition of the builder's commitment to serve people with disabilities whose income falls below 60% of the median income for the area. These builders may construct apartment buildings, individual housing, or group homes.

For those who would like public housing, there are voucher programs for low and moderate-income individuals and families. Housing assistance in the form of housing choice vouchers, (also known as section 8) enable individuals with autism to access the housing that is right for them.

With a housing choice voucher, those very low-income families and individuals are assured clean, safe housing, of their choice, as long as their landlord has agreed to be a part of the program.

The other option is moving into subsidized housing. These homes are usually a part of neighborhood type setting built by the government specifically for low income families.

Other forms of assistance

There are also charitable foundations that offer grant programs specifically for individuals and families. These can offset the cost of things, freeing up financial resources for housing costs.

Scholarships are also available to those with an autism diagnosis. These scholarships are awarded, many with strict guidelines for getting and keeping the funding, including what the money is used for.

There are programs available in communities as well. Sometimes non profit organizations, churches, and even other residents can provide financial resources, or assistance through donations such as furniture, and other home needs.

Knowing your child can be set up within whatever community is chosen, and surrounded by those who are aware of and available to them can be a great comfort for parents, and make their adult children more comfortable in their home.

Summing up

Preparing your autistic child for adulthood can be challenging. It can also be a very special time. Knowing what your options are for housing assistance can be one more box checked off the list.

Seeing autistic adults surrounded by their communities as they launch into a new part of their life's journey is a beautiful thing. A parent being there every step of the way, just as they always have been, can make the transition that much better.

When we are at the end of our life, we can know that the effects of what we built with and for our children last for their lifetime, even the ones we don't get to see.

Resources

Here are some resources I found that could be helpful for you and your family.
https://iacc.hhs.gov/resources/housing/websites/ www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/hcv/guidebook www.benefits.gov/benefit/710

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Autism Housing Grants: Helping Your Child Live Independently

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A guide to housing assistance, what autism housing grants and programs are out there, and how families can get support services for their loved ones.

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Assisted housing program.

Program Eligibility: Individual with disability must live in Orange County are eligible.

No information on cost was available on website.

Pros:

This program looks for landlords and staff that support and display appropriate disabliity etiquette as well as respectful interactions (Dayle McIntosh, 2024).

Educate tenants to understand their rights, create payment plans and scheduling, offer support to help individuals with disabilities say organized, clean, and manage their money (Dayle McIntosh, 2024).

Cons:

Individuals with disabilities need to live in Orange County.

Individual will live on own and be responsible for rent, paying rent on time, and cleaning their place. Individual needs to have adequate skills to be independent.

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Watch how to sign 'housing' in American Sign Language

Watch how to sign 'service' in American Sign Language

Dayle McIntosh Center's Housing Program assists individuals with disabilities and older adults who reside in Orange County with navigating housing options successfully and maintaining sustainable housing solutions that align with their needs. Housing services include information and referrals, housing navigation, deposit assistance, tenancy/sustainability support, and housing education through workshops.

*It is important to note that the DMC does not own or operate any housing units. We do not provide emergency services, nor do we have access to emergency shelter or long-term facility placement services.

Program Eligibility

Individuals with disabilities and older adults residing in Orange County are eligible for Housing Services.

Dayle McIntosh Center also has access to funding for CalOptima members who are either currently experiencing homelessness or are at immediate risk of becoming homeless (must also meet the disability/age eligibility requirement of 55+).

Housing Workshops - Coming Soon!

Housing Search and Documentation Ready!

Budgeting for Housing

Subsidized Housing/Applying for CalAIM

Know Your Rights

Housing Resources:

If you are in need of emergency shelter and/or would like shelter resources to support your housing needs, click on the link below:
Housing Resources updated 2023
For more information call 714.621.3300 or please click on the following link to complete a housing referral

Landlord Partnership Program:

At the Dayle McIntosh Center, we value nurturing positive landlord-tenant relationships. We aim to foster collaboration for long-term success. Here's how we can work together to achieve this:
For Landlords and Staff:
Disability Etiquette/Accommodations: We promote disability etiquette, providing guidelines for respectful interactions with individuals with disabilities, as well as provide education and resources related to accommodations to ensure safe housing. These principles apply to social and professional interactions, emphasizing inclusivity, empathy, and understanding.

Housing Resources: We are pleased to share a list of available community resources for your tenants. By doing so, you demonstrate your commitment as a supportive landlord, dedicated to ensuring your tenants have access to the support they need for safe and stable housing.

Join our Housing Leads List: Don't let your unit stay empty too long - as part of our Landlord Partnership Program, your unit[s] can be added to our shared lists for eligible individuals.

For Your Tenants:

When you provide housing to our Orange County consumers who have disabilities and are older adults, your new tenant gains access to a range of valuable services to support their responsible and informed tenancy if they choose:

Rental Agreement Review: We educate tenants to fully understand their rights, responsibilities, and obligations under the lease, preventing disputes and ensuring legal protection, fostering a transparent and harmonious rental experience.

Rent Payment and Bill Scheduling: We can assist tenants in creating a rent payment and bill scheduling plan, ensuring timely payments and reducing stress for tenants and landlords.

Money Management: Our financial workshops equip tenants with essential money management skills, promoting responsible budgeting and financial stability.

Organization: We offer guidance on efficient living space organization, encouraging cleanliness and orderliness.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Our practical tips and guidance on cleaning and maintenance contribute to a positive living environment and help prevent property damage.

DMC Services: Tenants can also access our non-housing-related services to enhance their well-being and support their ability to sustain their housing.

Landlord Incentive Bonuses:

By partnering with us, you're not just renting your property; you're becoming an integral part of a collaborative effort to empower tenants and foster strong, responsible, and respectful tenancy. We aim to create a positive living experience and promote thriving, long-term rental relationships.

Additionally, you become eligible for a monetary bonus. The bonus amount is determined based on the individual's circumstances.

For more information, please contact Marisol Johnson at 714-621-3300 Ext 307 or mjohnson@daylemc.org.

Thank you for considering a partnership with us!

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Watch how to sign 'housing' in American Sign Language Watch how to sign 'service' in American Sign Language Dayle McIntosh Center's Housing Program assists individuals with disabilities and older adults who reside in Orange County with navigating housing options successfully and maintaining sustainable housing solutions that align with their needs.

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State resource: Autism Society San Francisco Bay 

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State resource: Autism Society San Francisco Bay 

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Housing options available:

Group homes (assisted living option)

No cost information was available on website.

Pros:

Regional center can help pay for group home rent option.

Different levels (1-4) of support services that vary in the areas of supervision, care, self-help skills, mobility, and behavior (Autism Society San Francisco Bay Area, 2024).

Some group homes have structured daily routines, transportation available, and social/recreation opportunities.

Cons:

Not many group homes are set up to support individuals with autism.

Lack of training to work with individuals with autism.

Some group homes limit parental involvement.

Apartment/Rental Homes (Independent Living option)

No cost information was available on website. Rent is dependent on location of apartment and financial support from Regional Center and SSI.

Pros:

Regional center and SSI can both help fund rent.

More independence for the ASD individual

Parents are able to visit and stay involved in the individuals life.

Cons:

Limited options available.

If ASD individual does not have support or someone who can help them, it may become isolated (Autism Society San Francisco Bay Area, 2024).

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Housing – Autism Society San Francisco Bay Area

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Supported living community

Eligibility: Not found on website

Pricing (rent per tenant):

Single story home (4 bedrooms): $2,960/Mo

Duplex Home (2 bed, 2 bath): $3,165/MO

Two story home (5 bedrooms, 4 bath): $2,655-$3,165/MO

Pros:

Clubhouse, swimming pool, hot tub, outdoor grill, garden, and bike path within community.

Residents can use public transportation or on-demand ride share to navigate the community.

Security guide on site

Cons:

Additional services such as direct support are not automatically provided, they need to be secured through a agency of your choice (29 Acres, 2024).

Only 10 homes as of right now. The community is small and limited.

Some experience provided come at an additional charge.

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29 Acres uses a variety of research-based approaches and teaching strategies derived from the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) applied in the natural environment. Each client will have an individualized plan that is customized specifically for them.

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Local Career and Technical Education Programs (CTE)- Walnut High School

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Local Career and Technical Education Programs (CTE)- Walnut High School

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Local: CTE pathways

Contact: WHS Phone: (909) 594-1333

Description: WHS provides career and technical education pathway programs to help prepare students with the skills necessary that are needed within that field. The school offers pathways in Business, Photography, Education, Sports Medicine, Nursing, and more.

Pros:

There are a variety of options available to choose from.

Students with autism can try out classes each semester to explore each career field and see if this is something they like.

Cons:

There is not evidence of these pathways being successful for students with disabilities.

Some courses can transfer as college credit, while others cannot.

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Local: Mount San Antonio College IMPACT program

Contact: IMPACT department 1(909) 274-4192.

Description: This program helps adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) and DD participate in college experiences while providing them with employment training, independent living skills, and community experience. This program focuses on using a person-centered plan that helps students individually with their goals that were developed by exploring each students interest, needs, and capabilities (Mt. San Antonio College, n.d.).

Pros:

This program offers classes in a style that is similar to typical developing peers. This offers students the opportunity to walk on campus alongside their peers and have that on campus college experience.

There is an option for someone to help students complete their application online with live support.

Cons:

The courses are noncredit courses.

Depending on a students schedule, classes are at various locations. Students need to ensure that they are picking the correct location and have transportation for these classes.

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Adults With Disabilities Division at Mt. SAC

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Local: California State University, Long Beach- Think Beach

Contact: CED-Ccces@csuld.edu

Description: This is a new program that is offered at CSULB to students with ID and ASD. Students spend two years at this program learning skills that help them become independent individuals within the community. The program offers career exploration, work experience, social inclusive activities, and access to living skills workshops.

Pros:

Departments on campus have partnered with this program to help provided on campus work experience.

Students in this program can take traditional college courses for credit with their typical developing peers.

Cons:

Housing is not provided

This program has not yet been approved to provide federal financial aid.

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Local: UCLA - Pathways program

Contact: pathway@uclaextension.edu

Description: This is a 2–3-year program for students with ASD. The program provides support in education, social skills, and vocational experience (ICI, 2024). Students who attend are age 18-26. Students have the option to earn two certificates. The first certificate is in Learning and Life Skills, while the secondary certificate is career based. The program has a residential option that allows students to learn crucial independent living skills.

Pros:

This program allows students to participate in social events with their typically developing peers.

The option to live on campus allows students to experience real college life.

If students are not ready for the program when they apply and the college encourages students to re-apply when they are ready.

Cons:

This program cost on average $30,000 a year. With food and housing adding additional cost.

Only half the students who are enrolled in this program currently get paid work experience.

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Pathway at UCLA Extension is a two to three year college program for neurodiverse students, offering a blend of educational, social, and vocational experiences. Our goal is to provide students with a supported college experience and prepare students for employment and/or continued education when they complete the program.

On campus, Pathway students attend classes and participate in the many social, recreational and cultural activities of a major university. Student are enrolled in a Specialization in Learning and Life Skills. As a student at UCLA Extension, students also have the opportunity to enroll in a secondary certificate at Extension that is more career based as part of an optional third year.

Living away from home while attending a college program is an important way to learn skills for independent living, and we recommend that all students take advantage of our residential option. However, students may also commute to Pathway as either full-time or part-time students.

Students who successfully complete the program, including 2-3 internships, receive an award of completion in Learning and Life Skills and are invited to attend the annual UCLA Extension graduation ceremony.

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Pathway at UCLA Extension is a two to three year college program for neurodiverse students, offering a blend of educational, social, and vocational experiences. Our goal is to provide students with a supported college experience and prepare students for employment and/or continued education when they complete the program.

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State: Community College- College to Career (North Orange)

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State: Community College- College to Career (North Orange)

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Program: College to Career- North Orange Continuing Education

Contact: Program Contact: April Fante

Email: collegetocareer@noce.edu

Phone714-808-4714

Description: College to Career works in coordination with DOR and receives funding from them. The college helps students with ID, ASD, or a cognitive disability learn valuable job skills that can be used to obtain employment. Students create a educational plan with a counselor, receive coaching, participate in employment workshops, have an opportunity to get a job, and find the best placement based on the student's individual goal.

Pros:

Funded by DOR. The program could possible be at no cost to the family.

Program is for 3 years

Cons:

Not all students who apply get accepted.

Only 10% of students in the program get paid work.

Students only get volunteer work experience in this program.

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College to Career (C2C) is a program that provides services that support students with intellectual disabilities (ID) as they take inclusive noncredit and credit classes.

Upon completion of their educational goals, C2C provides employment services and job development so that students can obtain competitive, integrated employment.

Students typically complete the program in one to three years. C2C support services include:

Counseling and accommodations

Educational Coaching

Specialized lab to assist students with classwork and studying

Access to adaptive technology

Work readiness preparation

Job placement help

2024 College to Career: Information Night

Learn more about C2C:

Program overview.

Application process.

Q&A sessions with C2C staff.

For more information or to request accommodations, call us at (714) 808-4719 or e-mail us at CollegetoCareer@noce.edu

Join us on Zoom!

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

5:30 p.m.

Apply now to the College to Career Program

Fill out the printable form application to apply to the C2C program today!

Download the printable C2C Application.

C2C Eligibility

The C2C program accepts up to 20 new students a year. Applications are submitted between January and April. Applicants participate in an interview with program administrators, staff, and faculty.

Eligibility requirements for students include:

18 years of age or older.

Verification of intellectual disability (ID), autism (ASD), or similar cognitive disability.

Specific academic and job goals.

Desire to participate in inclusive noncredit or credit classes.

Ability to meet the academic demands of community college classes with C2C support.

Desire to obtain employment.

New C2C Students Will:

Attend Summer orientation in June.

Create an educational plan with a C2C Counselor.

Register for inclusive classes.

Attend C2C Educational and Employment Support Lab.

Receive educational coaching support services.

Participate in employment workshops.

Meet with our job developer and explore volunteer/internship opportunities in your community.

Get a job.

Job placement and successful closure may vary based on the student's goals.

About College to Career

C2C operates with funding from the California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR). The North Orange County Community College District (NOCCD) is one of just eight institutions in the state to receive funding for C2C.

NOCCD partners with the Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC), DOR, and local employers to develop jobs for students. Together, we prepare students with ID for competitive, integrated employment.

"C2C assisted me with my college courses, campus life, and obtaining a job!" Jacob Morell
College to Career Cohort, DSS Alumnus, and High School Diploma Alumnus

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College to Career - North Orange Continuing Education

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College to Career at NOCE helps students with intellectual disabilities succeed in college classes and at work. Learn how to apply.

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Program: Wayfinders- California State University, Fresno

Contact: Ryan Wilson Email: wayfinders@mail.fresnostate.edu

Description: This two year program helps adults with ID and DD increase their independence and participate in work experience. Students live in student apartments, have internships, and take classes through Fresno State's Open University. This is a non-degree certificate.

Pros:

Individuals may quality for federal financial aid to help pay for this program.

Students can be 18-28 years old, allowing students to attend this program after they complete their districts ATP.

100% of students in the program have paid work while attending this program (Think College, 2024).

Cons:

If the student does not have financial assistance, tuition may be an issue.

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National: The Bridge to Adelphi program at Adelphi University

Contact information: admissions@adelphi.edu

Description: This program offers services and provides coaches to help students in the areas of academics and vocational skills, a peer mentor, and a learning strategist (Pallardy, 2019). There is social skills support and students can attend bi-weekly social skills groups and bi-monthly on and off campus group meetings.

Pros:

This program has a sensory room that can be used by students with autism or other needs to help calm and regulate themselves.

You will have a vocational coach that will help guide you in identifying your interest, areas of strengths, and the best job field that fits your needs.

Cons:

There are college fees associated with this program.

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Program: Adults with Autism Center

Contact: Phone (801) 784-5972

Address: 6232 S 900 E Murray, UT 84121

Description: This program serves adults with complex needs due to their disability. Individuals are aged 18 and older. The program offers resources in the areas of recreation, daily living skills, job training, and academics. The program uses ABA therapy and highly trained staff to help each individual be successful.

Pros:

The program uses a person-centered approach tailoring each individuals program needs based on their abilities and interest.

The program offers internships, volunteer work, and supported employment.

Cons:

This program is based in Utah. If families are not from this area, they may need to relocate in order to patriciate in this program.

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Adult Ability Center of Lifetime Learning

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Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Support for Adults- Personal Growth

Our services will focus on person-centered independent living skills, vocational training, supported employment, and community integration with high levels of staff support to ensure individual progress and independence. Our treatments are scientifically based in ABA therapy.

We strive to be sure these individuals are being cared for and are growing daily. Each one of these individuals has a personal evaluation to determine their strengths, placement, and areas of improvement. From there, an individual is given a road map to meet personal goals that will better assist them in life. For any questions about our center, please contact us today.

It is part of our mission at the Adult Autism Center to ensure that all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families have transition plans that result in a more independent adult life that is meaningful to the life of an adult with IDD, along with effective interventions, services, resources, and support throughout their lifetime.

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Resources For Adults With IDD| Our Center | Adult Autism Center

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The Adult Autism Center fulfills an unmet need in the community by providing resources for adults with IDD. Learn more about our center today!

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Department of Developmental Services (DDS)

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Department of Developmental Services (DDS)

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Contact: Phone: 833-421-0061
Email: info@dds.ca.gov

Description: DDS is person-centered service system that helps people with ID and DD. DDS has different work programs to fit each individuals need such as Coordinated Career Pathways, Work Activity Program services, Work Services, Supported Employment Services, and Competitive Integrated Employment (CA DDS, 2024). DDS works alongside DOR and Regional Centers to help maximize individual success.

Pros:

There are many job opportunities available. It is important to find one that fits the needs of the individual person.

There is a lot of information that is accessible to families and students. It is important to find a service coordinator to help.

Con:

It is unclear if these services are as successful with students with complex needs.

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CA Department of Developmental Services - Agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.

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Vision:

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience respect for their culture and language preferences, their choices, beliefs, values, needs, and goals, from a person-centered service system made up of a network of community agencies that provide high quality, outcome-based and equitable services.

Visión:

Las personas con discapacidades intelectuales y del desarrollo serán respetadas por sus preferencias culturales y lingüísticas, sus decisiones, creencias, valores, necesidades y metas, apoyados por un sistema de servicios centrado en las personas formado por una red de agencias comunitarias que brindan servicios de alta calidad con resultados y servicios equitativos.

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State of California & Department of Developmental Services

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Home - CA Department of Developmental Services

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People with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience respect for their culture and language preferences, their choices, beliefs, values, needs, and goals, from a person-centered service system made up of a network of community agencies that provide high quality, outcome-based and equitable services.

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Description: Inclusive apprenticeship is designed to help support access and inclusion for people with disabilities who are interesting in apprenticeship (U.S Department of Labor, n.d.). Apprenticeship helps widen the talent pool and individuals with disabilities can attain essential skills they need to succeed in their desired job fields (U.S Department of Labor, n.d.).

Pros:

Individuals who enroll in apprenticeship's have the opportunity to earn money while they gain hands-on experience.

Students start off in a classroom (online or in person) and then move into on the job training.

Cons:

Apprenticeships are in high-demand job areas such as cybersecurity, human resources, and clean energy. If these are not an area of interest, this might be something to take into consideration.

A national program: https://apprenticareers.org/

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Partnership on Inclusive Apprenticeship (PIA)

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The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is committed to long-term efforts to grow and expand apprenticeships, especially for diverse, underserved and underrepresented communities. Launched in 2020, the Partnership on Inclusive Apprenticeship (PIA), an ODEP-funded project, focused on driving policies and practices to improve access to career pathways and talent pipelines.

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Program: Project SEARCH

Contact: https://www.projectsearch.us/contact/

Description: This program helps individuals with significant intellectual and developmental disabilities learn hands-on vocational skills and gain real-life work experience. The program offers long-term job coaching and feedback from teachers, trainers, and employers (Project Search, 2018). The overall goal of the program is to help these individuals find and secure employment in the competitive pay world.

Pros:

70%-100% of a class has been employed within 9 months of graduation (Project Search, 2018).

The program offers a blend on classroom training and trainers to help master work task.

Cons:

If a student is in the 'Internship', transportation is not provided. Students would need to find their own transportation to the host business site.

This program is for individuals with disabilitie aged 18-30.

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Current Events Conference 2024 Make your plans to join us in beautiful Albuquerque, NM! Registration is open through June 14! Click HERE to learn more. Autism Acceptance Every Day The Project SEARCH program at Jefferson Health Hospital in Cherry Hill, NJ prepares young adults with autism

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Organization to gain work experience: Walgreens REDI

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Organization to gain work experience: Walgreens REDI

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Description: This store has a program called ‘Retail Employees with Disabilities Initiative’ (REDI). This program is for individuals with disabilities that would like to gain experience in retail and customer service skills. The program is 3-4 weeks, where you would with a store manager and job coach. The skills that are worked on are stocking shelves, operating a cash register, and unloading trucks (Wehman, 2020).

Contact: REDI@walgreens.com

Pros:

Helps provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to learn and develop the basic retail skills that are needed to be successful in Walgreens stores (Walgreens Co, 2014).

Training sessions are found in individuals local areas.

Cons:

This is a work experience training program and does not guarantee employment.

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News: To all providers:
REDI will be updating our documents. If you have any questions, please email redi@walgreens.com

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Contact: CRDSSInfo@dor.ca.gov

Description: The Department of Rehabilitation works with individuals with disabilities to help provide services that help advocate for employment, independent living, and equality (State of California, 2024). DOR offers a supported employment program that helps provided services for individuals with significant disabilities in an integrated employment setting (State of California, 2024).

Pros:

Individuals can get the support from a job coach. The job coaching will be gradually reduced as the individual begins to perform the job duties independently.

DOR tailer their services to each individual to ensure the best support and resources that fits the individuals need.

Cons:

Job support services are limited to 24 months.

To obtain job support, individuals will need to apply to DOR and get the services.

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1. Home

2. What We Do

3. Policy and Regulations

4. Order of Selection

5. Job Seeker-Consumer

6. Supported Employment Program

The Supported Employment Program provides activities and services, including ongoing support services, needed to support and maintain an individual with a most significant disability, including youth with most significant disabilities, in an integrated employment setting for the term of employment.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What If I Want to Work But I Need Help to Learn and Do My Job?

The Department has a Supported Employment Program that can provide a job coach to help you learn your job, do well at your job, and keep working.

How Does the SEP Work?

The DOR partners with Community Rehabilitation Programs, which provide a range of vocational rehabilitation services directly to DOR consumers.

How Will a Job Coach Help Me?

A job coach supports an individual in learning and performing their job duties. Job coaching can be provided individually or in a group. If you receive individual support, job coaching will be gradually reduced until you can perform most, if not all, of your job duties without assistance.

How Long Can I Receive Supported Employment Services?

DOR Supported Employment services are typically limited to 24 months. After you and your counselor decide that you are in a good job match, the DOR will help you transition to extended services. These include services through regional centers or other funding sources or "natural supports" from business supervisors, friends, or family members.

How Do I Get Supported Employment Services?

You can apply for Supported Employment and other DOR services through our application process.

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The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) is an employment and independent living resource for people with disabilities...

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Local Trade/Vocational School- HARTT Center

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Local Trade/Vocational School- HARTT Center

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Local: HARTT Center- WVUSD

Contact: District phone #(909) 595-1261

Description: The HARTT Center serves students within the district aged 18-22 years old. The center focuses on post-secondary education and training such as job skills, community skills, and independent living skills. Students learn how to cook, clean, garden, grocery shop, take the city bus, and gain hand-on job experience.

Pros:

Student work at various job sites. This allows students to explore various job fields and expand their knowledge in jobs.

Students become familiar and confident in their own community.

Cons:

This program is designed for students who are in the WVUSD. If you are outside the district, you might not be able to attend the program.

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HARTT Center in Walnut helps disabled adults live independent lives
The new HARTT Center in Walnut has a lot of heart. The Hockwalt Resource and Transition Training Center serves disabled students 18-22 years old who need help learning to lead independent lives.

Located on Lemon Avenue, the center has become a home away from home for these students. In fact, the center has all of comforts of a nice house.

Walnut Valley Unified held an open house on Wednesday to showcase the facility. Civic leaders joined in the celebration of the long anticipated center.

"Walnut Valley has always had an exceptional program for special education," said Judi Koorndyk, Coordinator of Special Education. "But this is the kind of center we've been waiting for. It's the capstone of our program."

The pilot program began last year with eight students, according to teacher Cheryl Faren. It has grown to 40 students, including two affiliated classes at Mount San Antonio College.

Students are taught transition skills based on their abilities. The goal is to help them transition successfully to adult living. These skills are taught through community-based instruction as well as classroom instruction.

"We want to help them function as adults as much as possible," Koorndyk said. "We want them to develop as much independence as their abilities allow."

Don't know how to cook? The center has a large kitchen, where students learn how to make their own meals.

"We teach them to cook from scratch and follow a recipe. They learn how much food they need for each person," Faren noted. "They recently made a meal for students visiting from Walnut High."

Don't know how to do laundry? The HARTT Center has a laundry room where students learn to how use a new washer and dryer.

"In our formal dining room, we teach them how to set a table and decorate if they want to have a dinner party," Faren said.

Outside, students and staff have started a garden. The courtyard was full of colorful flowers, as well as broccoli, lettuce, tomatoes and other vegetables.

In the classroom, they work on a Certificate of Completion from high school. In the computer lab, the students learn how to look for employment and fill out a job application.

Every young adult has a outside job, where they learn valuable work skills. The district has partnered with 20 local businesses to provide the work experience.

"We show them how to use the public transit system so they can get to a job or go to the market or movies," Koorndyk said. "They go out every day with our staff to work at their jobs."

Students like 21-year-old Gus Cobarrubias appreciate the instruction.

"I want to become a security guard, but right now I'm working at Kelly Paper for $9 an hour," the Walnut resident said.

Other students work at Chick-fil-A Restaurant or the Discovered Treasures Thrift Store in Walnut. Classmate Jennifer Tran says she likes to learn how to do things. The 19-year-old showed us how to work the washer and dryer.

"We want to teach them the skills they'll need for the rest of their lives, whether they want to move into a group home or stay in their current homes," Koorndyk said.

"We show them how to navigate in the outside world, how to survive in our society," agreed Ron Hockwalt Academy Principal Jose Annicchiarico.

Student Jennifer Tan, 19, left, and Gustavo Covarrubias, 21, shown the garden at HARTT Center in Walnut on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2014. The center serves 18-22 year old students with disabilities who need support as they transition to adulthood. Watchara Phomicinda - Staff photographer

Student Jennifer Tan, 19, works on a drawing project at HARTT Center in Walnut. Watchara Phomicinda - Staff photographer

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HARTT Center in Walnut helps disabled adults live independent lives

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Walnut Valley Unified School District is located in Walnut, CA and serves K-12 students.