More than anything we need a culture that understands and accepts us, and allows us to use the skills we have in productive ways. We cannot hold jobs because we never quite fit in to the social culture of the workplace and despite ADA it is very easy for the employer to arrange things so they can legally fire us. We don't have the ability to follow protocol well, especially when it is not documented, and this works against us both in the workplace and after we have been fired. If our skills exceed those of our co-workers we are told we make the others look bad.

We don't have the support system many others do, because most of us are rejected and disowned by parents, siblings and "friends". We tend to be very poor and lonely. Money donated to autistic organizations is spent on neurotypicals or autistic children and very rarely if ever actually reaches autistics themselves.

I would recommend beginning with each individuals strengths and interests. For example, my son is a self taught musician. I went to a local university, contacted the chair of the music department and found a music major to help my son with leisure activities surrounding this interest and to explore options within the realm of music to explore areas within the music industry for employment. In our case, Jeffrey found great interest in music engineering. We were able to seek out possibilities for further education when he graduates as well as other possibilities should he change his mind. Work with strengths, explore options through other professionals and be open to resources that provide help for all people, not necessarily one group of clients. Focus on each individuals strengths to develop plans because grouping everyone together will not serve the clients. This will additionally provide your clients with the self determination they need, encourage further independence and improve feelings of self-esteem and self-worth. Be open to all resources, not just the those that are most apparent. Thank you for asking parents and the individuals you will serve! Too often we are not recognized as a valuable resource.

I think we need a vocational training facility with college dorm like setting and meal services. While additional support services might be needed, reasonable cost for tuition is desired.

@A MyAutismTeam Member - My child is 4yrs old. So while I don't have an answer to your question, I do want to thank you for your dedication to help families affected by autism.

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A MyAutis...

Create a good Daycare Adult Programs in the Bay Area. I am very interested in a program that is more community based, lots of job coaching, and more mainstreamed. Looking for a program with adults that have no aggression, hitting, screaming, throwing etc.