Camp FRIEND – Career Exploration for Autistic Young Adults Week The Autism Society of Mahoning Valley and its Camp FRIEND program are proud to collaborate with Vista AST, a key component of the Youngstown Business Incubator located in Downtown Youngstown. This partnership leverages Vista AST's distinguished curriculum and the specialized skills of our autism expert staff to deliver a groundbreaking program designed for young adults. Our financial partners are the Youngstown Foundation and the State Farm Insurance through their Neighborhood Assist Program. Program Objectives The Career Exploration for Autistic Young Adults Week aims to equip young adults aged 18-25 with crucial career adaptability skills. Participants will gain hands-on experience across various employment sectors, enhancing their employment readiness in a supportive environment. This initiative represents the culmination of our long-standing goal to add a third week of engagement at Camp FRIEND. Program Leadership We are delighted to announce that Jennifer Groce’, an experienced autism educator from Potential Development in Youngstown, will be the facilitator for this week. Jennifer is already well-acquainted with our community through her leadership of our Social Connections monthly group for teens and young adults. Her presence is anticipated to provide comfort and continuity for both participants and their families. An additional autism expert will also support this program, ensuring personalized attention and guidance. Support Staff and Instruction Vista AST will contribute three interns who will play a pivotal role in delivering the curriculum and directly engaging with our participants, ensuring a rich and interactive learning experience. Program Schedule The program is scheduled for the week of August 5-9 at Vista AST’s new discovery space at 265 W. Federal Street in Downtown Youngstown. Up to 18 young adults will have the opportunity to participate in this enriching experience. The program will be from 9am to 3pm and the registration fee is $99 (total cost for the week due to generous grant support). Pizza for lunch included daily. Campers can pack a lunch as well. If interested, please fill out this form for consideration. Our Adult Week Camp Director may contact you to discuss support needs so please reply back to her promptly. Filling out this form does not guarantee your acceptance. Form is HERE: https://autismmv.org/camp-friend-career-exploration-for-autistic-young-adults-week/