According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are 1 in 54 individuals diagnosed on the autism spectrum. Upon graduating from high school, or by age 21, special education services cease to be a mandatory provision resulting in individuals falling off the proverbial “service cliff.”
In 10 years, there will be 500,000 individuals on the autism spectrum reaching adulthood.
The focus of LifeWorks at WKU is the transition into independent living, secured employment, and community engagement for young autistic adults ready to enter the workforce. LifeWorks utilizes Learn4Independence — 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.
Participants feel at home while learning daily independent living skills in specially designed apartments with multi-purpose spaces that promote community.
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.
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.
Participants are empowered to have meaningful relationships for personal fulfillment that prepares them to integrate into community life.
Student financial education, both basics and personal finances.
Planned monthly activities to engage in the community.
Education for relationship building and interpersonal interaction.
An environment where young adults can live and work independently.
Nutritious meal preparation and planning.
Transportation to class, work, and nearby locations.
Guidance for personal and vocational development.
Confidence to live in, work in, and engage in the community.