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A brief overview. Autism – a lifelong disorder. 2008 CDC reports rate of autism is 1 in 88 children; 1 in 54 boys and 1 in 252 girls Focus on early intervention and services for children; adult services severely lacking Only 19% are working; half still living at home
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Autism – a lifelong disorder • 2008 CDC reports rate of autism is 1 in 88 children; 1 in 54 boys and 1 in 252 girls • Focus on early intervention and services for children; adult services severely lacking • Only 19% are working; half still living at home • Half a million coming of age in the next decade – 600% more than we have now
Limited options • Living at home indefinitely • Group homes • Institutionalization • Living with a sibling • Independent living w/full-time providers • Socialization and recreation • Meaningful work
Why a farm? • More freedom • More independence • Meaningful work • Socialization and recreation • Connection to animals, outdoors • Continue improving skills • Proven model
Farm Model Bittersweet Farms
Why create another one? • There are only a handful of farms in Ohio • Each one houses approx. 12 adults • Half a million coming of age in the next decade • Lifespan model, very little turnover • Long waiting lists • “We think the only way they will be able to access an agricultural model is to come together with others to create a model in their own area. “ www.ac-aa.org (Agricultural Communities for Adults with Autism)