From finding meaningful employment to exploring independent living options and engaging in social and recreational activities, we offer personalized support to foster independence, self-determination, and personal growth.
Finding Gainful Employment
Easterseals works with Autistic adults to help with employment and independent living after leaving the school system. Finding a job is a critical first step toward self-determination and financial wellness. Easterseals’ workforce development professionals help people with autism assess their skills, identify employment goals, and create training to meet personal goals.
Moving Away from Home
Autistic adults have many choices when it comes to living away from home.
- Independent living: Autistic individuals live in their own homes with minimal support, such as help with problem-solving, money management, or budgeting. Ideal for those with low support needs for daily living and social activities.
- Supported living: For Autistic people who aren't ready to live independently, can care for the majority of their own needs, and want some assistance with self-care and social planning. They usually live in their own apartments, sometimes sharing space, while developing skills for independent living with a case manager or support worker.
- Residential care homes: Homes in residential areas that serve multiple individuals with disabilities. Professional staff assist residents based on individual needs. Homes specializing in autism have staff trained for autism-specific needs.
- Adult foster care: Individuals live in a permanent home setting with a family. Families usually receive government support to care for Autistic adults.
- In-home services: Many Autistic adults live at home with family or friends. When extra support is needed, services like companionship, housekeeping, therapy, and personal care can be provided in the comfort of their home.
- Respite care: Some Autistic adults live with their parents long-term. Families may receive respite care, where a professional provides support at home, allowing parents to support their physical, mental, and emotional health as well.
Enjoying Social & Recreational Activities
Autistic adults can be active participants in all areas of life, including social and recreational activities. Easterseals’ camping, recreation, and respite programs may include weekends away, evenings out, and other opportunities to participate in recreational activities throughout the year.
These programs offers thousands of Autistic people the chance to develop lasting friendships and learn what they can do, no matter their age. They can enjoy adventures and conquer new physical challenges, and some camps also offer sessions exclusively for Autistic campers.
