Autism Outreach
$350 of $32,000 raised
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In Connecticut, 8,278 or 11.3% of children with disabilities ages 3-21 who received special education services have Autism. As a result, each individual can utilize and develop their unique skills into meaningful job skills for some for others, they may find fulfillment into entering the workforce, and for others receiving additional support programs to teach basic skills to become more self-sufficient while fostering friendships, spiritual growth, and a sense of belonging to fulfill an abundant life. American Hope Foundation of Greater Hartford will offer incomparable programs that allows people to maintain their independence and dignity by an experienced staff of professionals dedicated to exemplary personal attention. American Hope Foundation of Greater Hartford offers daily services that encourage individualized growth in the following areas: interpersonal skills, personal management, practical living, and personal wellness. American Hope Foundation of Greater Hartford programs are presented with a wide array of skill-building opportunities, which encourages functional independence and productivity in each person’s overall quality of life.
According to the most recent report by the National Autistic Society survey of over 450 children and adults with autism, an astonishing 70% of adults with autism are unable to live independently. Of these individuals, 49% live with family, creating a huge financial burden on aging parents, and 32% live in residential care facilities (offers little or no privacy, autonomy or stimulation). According to the same study, 70% of Autistic adults are unable to live independently. Only 3% of adults with autism live fully independently. In terms of employment, only 6% of adults hold paid, full-time jobs. Regarding mental health, over half of adults with autism have been diagnosed with depression some time in their adult life while 11% say they have suffered a “nervous breakdown.” 94% of Autistic adults are unable to hold paid, full-time jobs. Even though the majority of adults surveyed had participated in at least two autism interventions in childhood, 65% continue having difficulty making friends. Of teens surveyed, 74% stated they had difficulty making friends. Of children under 13 years old, 31% participated in no social activities at all. 65% of Autistic adults have difficulty making friends. Clearly this data shows the burden on quality of life for adults with autism, issues such as independence, self-determination, employment, mental health, social support, and meaningful relationships are virtually ignored when planning treatments, assessing treatment outcomes, or evaluating an overall program’s effectiveness.