Autism in Motion at The Arc Carroll County

At The Arc of Carroll County, we have created classes that will prepare adults on the autism spectrum to integrate into the community more smoothly and effectively. It has been our experience that once adults on the autism spectrum turn 21, they transition (most do not graduate) out of the public school system and are forced to abruptly integrate into society, with great difficulty. Many adult service providers combine these adults with autism with adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities without recognizing important differences in terms of therapeutic approach. In most cases, we have found this practice to fall short of “Best Practices” because many individuals that present with “classic autism” have differing sensory, social and behavioral needs, and have additional support requirements than individuals with mainly intellectual disabilities.

There are many resources in Carroll County that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but no program specifically designed for individuals on the autism spectrum, ages 18 and up. The Arc has created a suitable place for these individuals to have a sense of belonging and companionship as well as providing an appropriate structured transition into society.