New program designed to help autistic adults
It’s just another early morning for Hunter, as he loads up a truck with Goodtimes newspapers. After that it’s delivery time at the Santa Cruz wharf.
“I like delivering newspapers. I like walking and seeing the birds on the dock,” said Hunter.
Side by side, Hunter and his aid go from business to business until all the papers are gone. This is his first job.
“Individuals with autism typically have behaviors that aren’t socially appropriate and so we wanted to find a job that would be fitting for him and his employer,” said Adult Services Program Manager at Coryell Autism Center Leonard Ward.
Before Hunter was delivering papers you would find him at the Coryell Autism Center.
“Our school was open in 2009. It’s a school for children with intellectual disabilities from the ages of 14 to 22,” said Ward.
So what happens to someone like Hunter after they graduate? That’s why the school began the Adult Services Program.
“The numbers are staggering, 94% of adults with autism live with their parents. We provide services and staff to help with daily living, job coaching, and stuff like that. This will be a program he’s in the rest of his life,” said Ward.