Community Autism Resources

Community Autism Resources (CAR) collaborates with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to provide support to autistic individuals, families, or professionals. Our family supports program corresponds with over 322 people. They have either received a phone calls, emails, mailed information packets or referral lists, or have participated in an event at no cost to the family. We are often the first point of contact when there is an initial Autism diagnosis, and we continue to support the individual or family throughout their unique journey.

Through the Assistive Technology Program, Community Autism Resources (CAR) collaborates with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to evaluate adults for assistive technology support, purchase items, educate on usage, and support goal achievement. Assistive Technology (AT) is any item, piece of equipment, or program that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of an individual. AT can support independence, safety, hygiene, communication, and quality of life. Examples of AT include speech generating devices, medication dispensers, smart watches, track-to-track motor system ceiling lifts, adaptive clothing, and doorbell cameras, among thousands of other devices. In 2023, 73 individuals, their families, and staff were supported through this program.

Gottschall Access Program (GAP) collaborates with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to provide support to autistic adults. GAP is a three-year college certificate program that is hosted on a community college campus. The curriculum consists of three core classes that each student will take in Life Skills, Health and Wellness, and Theatre. They also have a choice of two enrichment courses that are often created by our students requests. Our goal at GAP is to provide our students with education and a place to grow their confidence. Many of our students are given the opportunity to work on social skills that they would otherwise not have access to. In 2023, we were able to support 50 students through this program.

Individualized Home Services works in conjunction with the Assistive Technology Program to support clients in the home.

College Navigation supports our clients that are college age with research and placement in college level programs.