Transitioning to Adulthood

The transition period from youth to adulthood represents a challenging life phase for those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or related disabilities. According to Federal and State of Florida guidelines, transition begins at the age of 12 in the disability community, whereby young adults move from school to job training, employment, post-secondary education, or recreation. Those who do not gain the essential social, employment, and goal-directed skills during their K-12 or college experience, risk “graduating to the couch” (e.g., Carter, 2021; Cunningham, 2022). Without specialized support, intervention, and long-term person-centered planning, the years after formal education may become isolating, lonely, and devoid of meaningful activities.

According to the U.S. Census and ARC FINDS Survey, unemployment rates for the ASD population are roughly 75-90%, demonstrating wide under-representation in traditional workplace settings. Individuals with high support needs who gain employment, have historically been relegated to state employment services in isolated environments (Michell, 2014). While comprehensive transition programming significantly improves outcomes for those with ASD and related disabilities (Cavanagh & VanBergeijk, 2012), widespread gaps in specialized services has grown at alarming rates nationwide.

Recognizing the urgency and importance of supporting an increasing population of transition-age students, Florida Atlantic’s Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) developed the BRIDGE initiative with grant funding from the Taft Foundation. The two-year $315,000 award supports the development and delivery of this vital program. An acronym for Building Resources for Independence through Self-Determined Growth Experiences, BRIDGE aims to provide comprehensive support and guidance to its participants, and their families by utilizing a holistic and community-focused approach. Expanding its transition consulting and specialized support, BRIDGE builds upon Florida Atlantic CARD’s successful service model to serve its largest age segment.

The BRIDGE initiative is structured around three pillars to support core aspects of transition. The first pillar comprises direct consultation and individualized support for participants, their families and support teams. BRIDGE utilizes interactive transition toolkits and planning activities, as well as resource guides, and video vignettes for complex topics. The second pillar comprises education and training, extending these opportunities to community partners. Each quarter, BRIDGE offers training on a variety of transition-related topics. Additionally, a comprehensive Transition Conference is held each fall, providing a platform to share research, scholarship and best practices. The third pillar comprises Interactive services and opportunities for participants to build social, self-advocacy and vocational skills, as well as adulthood goals. BRIDGE offers adult hangout groups, an advisory council and an annual Art and Autism Expo to support this pillar.

Representing a significant step forward, Florida Atlantic’s BRIDGE initiative is making a tangible difference in the lives of its participants, paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future. For more information, visit https://www.fau.edu/education/centersandprograms/card/bridge-transition-support-initiative/.