Services/Programs
CARE will provide the following services and programs to individuals and their families:
Peer Support/Mentorship
One of the goals for this non-profit is to create a medium for people who are on the autism spectrum to be able to connect with friends and/or receive mentorship. This program aims to replicate the approach taken by Big Brother/Big Sister but it would include adults.
Peer support for autistic adults is the most important part that we are offering, that is at times missing in the community. Some autistic adults report at times feeling a lack of support in their lives. Once autistic kids reach adulthood and are no longer receiving services from the school system they may feel increasingly isolated and lonely. During my practice as a psychologist, I met with many adults on the spectrum who struggled in various areas of their lives.
Many autistic folks have expressed feeling deprived of friendships. Many have voiced wishing to have just one friend to share a simple activity such as fishing or seeing a movie with. Others have aspirations, goals or practical needs such as getting a driver's license but are unable to due to a lack of resources and family support. It can be challenging when no family or friends are available to help with the maneuverability part of a driver's test. We take for granted the privilege some of us have had, such as parents teaching us to maneuver a car in an empty parking lot with milk gallons filled with water. Others may just need a listening ear- a friend to call and talk with once in a while who will not judge them. Some of the support could entail mentoring a person on the spectrum who is interested in a career in a particular field. This support can look similar to a Big Brother/Big Sister program, for specific for adults on the autism spectrum.
Caregiver support
We want to offer support and share resources with families and caregivers of children and adults with autism. This is especially relevant for parents of newly diagnosed children. Sometimes it is confusing to know which way to turn, and what resources there are available.
Community outreach groups:
We want to involve parents in providing outreach and educational training of teachers, hospital staff, etc)
Caregiver exchange programs:
We envision a network of families of children with neurodevelopmental conditions supporting each other
Short term supportive therapy services
This is short-term supportive therapy (3 sessions or less) for caregivers or folks on the spectrum. Sometimes it helps to have a listening ear. This isn't meant to replace traditional psychotherapy. We can help with processing a new diagnosis, help share resources or refer to other providers as needed.
Advocacy/promote autism awareness
We want to continue to decrease stigma associated with having autism and bring awareness of the neurological diversity of autism. We plan to host events that promote autism awareness to the public. These events will be shared on this site. We look forward to seeing you there!
Social and Recreational Activities
Organize events and activities tailored to the interests and needs of children and adults with significant developmental disabilities
Create safe and inclusive environments for social interaction.
Peer Support/Mentorship
One of the goals for this non-profit is to create a medium for people who are on the autism spectrum to be able to connect with friends and/or receive mentorship. This program aims to replicate the approach taken by Big Brother/Big Sister but it would include adults.
Peer support for autistic adults is the most important part that we are offering, that is at times missing in the community. Some autistic adults report at times feeling a lack of support in their lives. Once autistic kids reach adulthood and are no longer receiving services from the school system they may feel increasingly isolated and lonely. During my practice as a psychologist, I met with many adults on the spectrum who struggled in various areas of their lives.
Many autistic folks have expressed feeling deprived of friendships. Many have voiced wishing to have just one friend to share a simple activity such as fishing or seeing a movie with. Others have aspirations, goals or practical needs such as getting a driver's license but are unable to due to a lack of resources and family support. It can be challenging when no family or friends are available to help with the maneuverability part of a driver's test. We take for granted the privilege some of us have had, such as parents teaching us to maneuver a car in an empty parking lot with milk gallons filled with water. Others may just need a listening ear- a friend to call and talk with once in a while who will not judge them. Some of the support could entail mentoring a person on the spectrum who is interested in a career in a particular field. This support can look similar to a Big Brother/Big Sister program, for specific for adults on the autism spectrum.
Caregiver support
We want to offer support and share resources with families and caregivers of children and adults with autism. This is especially relevant for parents of newly diagnosed children. Sometimes it is confusing to know which way to turn, and what resources there are available.
Community outreach groups:
We want to involve parents in providing outreach and educational training of teachers, hospital staff, etc)
Caregiver exchange programs:
We envision a network of families of children with neurodevelopmental conditions supporting each other
Short term supportive therapy services
This is short-term supportive therapy (3 sessions or less) for caregivers or folks on the spectrum. Sometimes it helps to have a listening ear. This isn't meant to replace traditional psychotherapy. We can help with processing a new diagnosis, help share resources or refer to other providers as needed.
Advocacy/promote autism awareness
We want to continue to decrease stigma associated with having autism and bring awareness of the neurological diversity of autism. We plan to host events that promote autism awareness to the public. These events will be shared on this site. We look forward to seeing you there!
Social and Recreational Activities
Organize events and activities tailored to the interests and needs of children and adults with significant developmental disabilities
Create safe and inclusive environments for social interaction.
