Autism Programs for Young Adults
LifeWorks at WKU is a 2 year, 4-tier program that will focus on independence, productivity, and community engagement for adults on the autism spectrum.
Incidence of Autism
According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are 1 in 59 individuals diagnosed on the autism spectrum. At age 21 special education services cease to be a mandatory service, so that when teens leave high school they fall off what has been called the “services cliff.”
In 10 years there will be 500,000 adults on the autism spectrum reaching adulthood.
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The focus of LifeWorks at WKU is the transition into independent living, securing employment, and engaging in community and leisure activities for autistic students ready to enter the workforce. LifeWorks at WKU utilizes Learn4Independence curriculum, a 32-course, scaffolded curriculum that focuses on skills to promote living independently and working successfully. This curriculum implements person centered planning, designed to accommodate various types of individuals with learning differences and is adaptable to diverse community and cultural needs.
At LifeWorks at WKU, our focus is on independence, productivity, and community engagement; and we operate under a four tier program to accomplish this.
The Four Tiers
Supported Living
Participants feel at home while learning daily independent living skills in specially designed apartments with multi-purpose spaces that promote community.
Supported Employment
Explore career opportunities, and receive instruction and mentorship to learn the critical skills needed to not only maintain employment, but also to be successful in the workplace.
Community Engagement
Participants will flourish among their neighbors in a nurturing and creative atmosphere specifically designed to connect with the community through a variety of local attractions.
Relationship Building
Participants are empowered to have meaningful relationships for personal fulfillment that prepares them to integrate into community life.
Curriculum Benefits
Finances
Student financial education, both basics and personal finances.
Events
Planned monthly activities to engage the community.
Education
Education for relationship building and interpersonal interaction.
Independence
An environment where students can live and work independently.
Nutrition
Nutritious meal preparation and planning.
Transportation
Transportation to class, work, and nearby locations.
Counseling
Two residence counselors living on site to offer assistance.
Confidence
Confidence to live in, work in, and engage the community.