The Division of Adult and Transitional Services offers an environment for adults with autism spectrum disorders that promotes mutual respect and a sense of competency and support. Our staff are committed to providing individually determined, state-of-the-art services, to promote individual growth and the development of skills that are necessary to be active, engaged and participating members of society. The staff of the Division share the DDDC philosophy that individuals with autism spectrum disorders have the following rights:

• The right to lead a normalized life
• The right to achieve their fullest potential
• The right to effective treatment
• The right to utilize skills attained during their school age years
• The right to enjoy a life of quality in an environment where individual preferences, choices and desires are respected

The program for adults provides the following opportunities that are designed to promote a full and productive life:

Employment
Center-Based Employment In-house, paid employment. Some of the experiences we provide include piecework mailings and clerical jobs.

Supported Employment Employment in the community, supported by a full-time Job Coach. Some of our opportunities include cleaning local eateries and maintenance at the University.

Competitive Employment Employment in the community with minimal supports. Some of our work sites include local restaurants, supermarkets, and a parent operated cleaning service, Men With Mops.

Life Skills
Critical Life Skills Training Instruction that leads to increased independence. Some of the skills we teach include environmental safety skills, personal safety skills, fire drills, street crossing and personal information.

Personal Awareness Skills Training Instruction that promotes self-awareness. Some of the skills we teach include situation appropriate dress, shaving, hair care and tooth brushing.

Training In Activities For Daily Living Instruction that promotes functional adult life. Some of the skills we teach include menu planning, food shopping, meal preparation, laundry and recreation/leisure activities. The program runs a cafe and provides a variety of breakfast items.

Communication And Social Awareness Training Instruction that increases the use of functional language during daily interactions and promotes social competence and self-determination. Some of the methods we use include direct instruction, role playing and video modeling.

Community Integration
Community Integration Skills Training Instruction that promotes adaptive functioning in community settings. Some of the skills we teach include travel, shopping and dining out.