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The Missing Middle: Recreation Access for Autistic Adults in New York
When autistic students finish high school or college in New York, the transition into adulthood often brings unexpected loss. What disappears is not only structured support, but also access to community, hobbies, and meaningful social participation. For autistic adults without intellectual...
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Creating Inclusive Recreational Spaces for Autistic Adults: The Role of Parks, Community Centers, and Workplaces
In theory, the community center gym was accessible. The ramps were well maintained, automatic doors readily available, and the hours of operation were clearly posted. However, when Jessie arrived after work, the fluorescent lights were glaring, the music was blaring, and every machine was occupied....
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From Gardens to Galleries: Cultivating Confidence, Identity, and Belonging Through Inclusive Community Experiences
At AABR’s Program Without Walls (PWOW) and Day Habilitation Programs, we believe that access to hobbies, recreation, and cultural exploration is not a luxury — it is a pathway to growth, confidence, identity, and belonging. For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD),...
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Equipping Communities for an Aging I/DD Population: Challenges, Solutions and Advocacy
As life expectancy increases, a growing number of individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are entering older adulthood. This demographic shift brings new challenges—and opportunities—for service providers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and...
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The Transition to Adulthood: Bridging Skill Gaps to Strengthen Community Inclusion
For autistic individuals, the transition to adulthood represents a pivotal developmental period filled with both potential and uncertainty. While for the most part, adolescence through special education programs often comes with robust educational supports and structured services, adulthood...
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All Are Welcome: Creating an Inclusive Festival
Almost 11 years ago, I founded an organization, Autism Personal Coach, that provides coaching to autistic adults and teens to improve the quality of our lives. Within the first year of our existence, I realized that the lack of community was a glaring and alarming need for many of our clients. That...
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The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation’s “NYC Overload Project” Creates Employment for Singer/Songwriters
Envisioning and then creating innovative employment opportunities for adults living with Autism has always been a hallmark of The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation’s mission. Last spring, while attending a performance by participants from The Miracle Project New York, the seeds of another new...
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Digital Storytelling Enhances Self-Expression for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum
At AHRC News York City, digital storytelling is enhancing self-expression for individuals on the autism spectrum through a community service-learning partnership with Pace University. AHRC New York City is a large, family-governed, nonprofit organization that has been serving individuals with...
