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How can I plan for my autistic child's future?
You may worry about your autistic child's future. You can plan ahead with help from local experts.
Randee Gabriel, programs manager for 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast, says parents can call 2-1-1 and ask for a special needs advocate. “There are programs you can apply for when your child is 3 years old that will support them as adults,” Gabriel says.
Autism Speaks has a wide selection of planning tools, such as:
• Transition Tool Kit: For Families on the Journey from Adolescence to Adulthood
• Financial Planning Tool Kit
The Els for Autism Foundation in Jupiter also helps with adult transition through work experience and independent living programs.
“Our vocational rehabilitation vendors offer work experience programs and independent living classes, such as Special Adults Life Skills Academy, which is a cooking and fitness class,” Executive Director Marlene Sotelo says.
Florida Atlantic University’s Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) provides free consultation, technical support training and resources to more than 5,200 families in five counties, director Maryellen Quinn-Lunny says.
Many life transitions require planning and preparation, Quinn-Lunny says. “We are there to support the individual and the family across the lifespan,” she says.
SOURCES:
• Melissa DiNuzzo, former manager of field development, Autism Speaks
• Randee Gabriel, programs manager, 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast
• Maryellen Quinn-Lunny, director, Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at Florida Atlantic University
• Marlene Sotelo, chief operating officer, Els for Autism Foundation
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Related resources
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Autism Navigator
A collection of web-based tools and courses that uses extensive video footage to bridge the gap between science and community practice. The navigator was created by faculty and staff in the Autism Institute at the Florida State University College of Medicine. The website includes resources for families.
1-84-427-3457 Website -
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Florida Atlantic University - Center for Autism and Related Disabilities
Free information, training and support based in Boca Raton for people with autism and related disabilities, as well as for their families and employers
561-213-5751 Website Email -
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Els for Autism
A global hub to connect international autism communities with resources and services for children and their families. A 26-acre facility in Jupiter provides tuition-free education for ages 3 to 21 at two charter schools on The Els Center of Excellence campus.
561-598-6200 Website Email -
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Autism Speaks
Advocacy, information and support for families, caregivers and people with autism.
202-955-3111 Website Email -
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211 Palm Beach Treasure Coast
Special needs hotline
2-1-1 Website Email -
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Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County
Individual Rights Advocacy — free legal services for the disadvantaged related to health care, housing, consumer issues, wage disputes and immigration
561-655-8944 Website