Program Overview

Potential clients are identified through collaboration with area high schools, vocational rehabilitation agencies and other adult service providers.  Autumn’s Dawn reviews assessment provided by the schools and other agencies and conducts additional assessment as needed to determine eligibility for services.  Each potential client and individuals from their support system meet with personnel from Autumn’s Dawn to participate in an evidence based person centered planning process.  This systematic assessment process narrows the focus areas for transition, generates personal goals and creates an action plan for implementation.  Once accepted into the program, Autumn’s Dawn offers direct instruction and support in the identified areas to assist individuals in reaching their potential to live full, independent lives.

Areas of Focus:

Self Determination

We champion the idea that young adults with disabilities can be empowered to make appropriate decisions for their own lives.

Possible areas of need and instruction provided: 

• identifying personal interests, strengths, and weaknesses
• self-advocating for needs and desires
• identifying a system of support
• discerning between wants and needs
• goal setting and accomplishment

Employment

We champion the idea that young adults with disabilities can obtain and maintain gainful employment. 

Possible areas of need and instruction provided: 

• resume writing
• job searching and interview skills
• conflict resolution and interpersonal skills
• on the job coaching
• establishing natural supports within the job site

Adult Living

We champion the idea that young adults with disabilities can secure an apartment or housing situation in which they can live independently with minimal support.

Possible areas of need and instruction provided: 

• personal grooming skills
• personal and household safety
• meal planning and preparation
• household chores
• budgeting
• time management
• locating and obtaining housing

Social Skills / Recreation & Leisure

We champion the idea that young adults with disabilities can attain the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and maintain appropriate personal relationships, as well as, identify and access community resources and programs that match his/her personal interests and hobbies. 

Possible areas of need and instruction provided: 

• social skills training
• dating and sexual safety
• community safety
• identifying and accessing community facilities and programs that meet areas of interests

Continuing Education / Life-long Learning

We champion the idea that young adults with disabilities can acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue areas of interest in order to continue personal and professional growth.

Possible areas of need and instruction provided: 

• identifying and accessing continuing education classes
• identifying and accessing certificate and trade programs
• organizational skills
• study skills / note taking skills