University Autism Outreach Program
The AFC University Autism Outreach Program (University Program) is a unique FREE program that connects local college students at the major academic institutions wanting experience with autism with families that need help. Our area is privileged to have several regionally and nationally recognized higher-level academic institutions, with undergraduate programs in special education and psychology. We currently have agreements with Davidson College, Queens University of Charlotte, UNC Charlotte and Johnson C. Smith University. Their students want practical experience specifically in autism within their related fields yet do not have an avenue to pursue the opportunity. Our community has families who need one on one resources for their children but can not afford them. The University Programs strives to meet the needs of both of these groups.
At the beginning of each semester, students and families register by completing an application with various points to match candidates to families. Matches are based on defined criteria and will be approved by AFC and Universities. These criteria include geographic location of family and student, availability of student vs. families requested times, and requested services to be provided. Students help these children with:
- Community integration—ex. Playgrounds, shopping, movies, libraries, post office, etc
- Language/speech development—pictures schedules, pronunciation, use of language, etc.
- Applied behavior analysis—behavior management
- Academic skills and tutoring—basic reading, writing, math, etc.
- Independent living skills—dressing, hygiene, kitchen skills, etc.
- Play skills—games, recreation, imaginary play, etc.
- Sensory integration—managing stressful environments (i.e., sensory overload)
In addition, AFC maximizes this experience by providing administrative support, training and on-going consultation. Our highly qualified Program Director has over 9 years of experience working in both private and public school settings with children and adults on the autism spectrum. She is a certified exceptional children’s teacher in MA and NC with her Master of Science in Education of Severe Special Needs from Simmons College in Boston, MA.
Program Objectives
This program will make a difference in the lives of children and families dealing with autism in our community in a variety of ways.
- It will allow families to have access to one on one opportunities for their child who might not otherwise be able to afford them.
- The students receive practical experience to expand and enhance their ability to serve children and families dealing with autism upon graduation.
- The minds and hearts of the students will be more open and receptive to those that are different. This has a “multiple effect”—by exposing them to the whole “accepting of differences”, they in turn interact with their community with a greater awareness.
- The students who participate and those they present to in class will have a better understanding of autism, what it is like to raise a child with autism and the challenges families face. They will be able to better identify the needs of the autism communities and identify where they can positively impact these children and their families.
The lives of ALL those who participate in this program are changed forever. Just read below.
Testimonials
Parent Testimonial
“The University Autism Outreach program has been so wonderful for my daughter. It has given her a friend and a much needed listening ear. We are so thankful to AFC and our Davidson student for providing this for our daughter. Though she can’t express it, we know it makes her feel that what she has to say is valued and therefore, SHE is valued by someone in her community.”
Student Testimonial
“I didn’t know whether or not I was interested in ‘autism’, but working with Zach has been a blast. I think I’m developing a passion for this.”
Contact Information
Please contact the AFC Program Director for more information.
univ@autismcarolinas.org or (704) 776-1232.