New Arizona program offered for autistic adults
Nov 24, 2014, 5:30 AM | Updated: 5:30 am
PHOENIX — Adults with autism who are over 18 years old have a new post-high school option in Arizona.
That option is the First Place Transition Academy. It’s a two-year program that focuses on learning independent living skills.
“Individuals learn whatever it takes to live more independently,” said Denise Resnick, the co-founder of the Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center (SARRC), “from maintaining their homes and preparing their meals, to attending classes — whether at Gateway Community College or at the Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center.”
The academy is at the 29 Palms Apartments near 48th Street and Thomas Road in Phoenix, which is where students can live as they go through the program. The complex features six two-bedroom apartments for people with autism, as well as 15 affordable housing units for seniors.
Tuition for the program is $3,500 a year, which covers rent, classes, individual services and activities.
