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For families of children with autism, the transition from school to adulthood can be filled with uncertainty. While high school graduation is a time of celebration for many, parents of children with autism face unique challenges as their children age out of school-based funding and support at 21. Recognizing this need, Vista Autism Services expanded its programming five years ago to include VASO—Vista Adult Services Organization—helping families bridge the gap between adolescence and adulthood.
The Vista School, a private school dedicated to children with autism, identified two major issues affecting families during this transition: limited funding and a lack of available resources. The current waiver system, which includes capped funding options like the Personal Family Directed Services (PFDS) waiver and the Community Living waiver, falls short for many families. The Consolidated waiver, which is uncapped, often has a waiting list of up to five years, leaving families without timely access to the supports they need.
Amy Hudson, a parent of a child with autism, highlighted the systemic challenges: “The funding system is antiquated and confusing. Not everyone has access to the Consolidated waiver, and the funding in the other waivers isn’t nearly enough for the behavior and employment supports needed for success.”
VASO is designed to fill these gaps, providing behavioral and employment support, job training, and safe transportation for adults with autism. Programs are tailored to the unique talents and interests of each individual, ensuring meaningful and productive opportunities in adulthood.
The program has made a significant difference for families like Lori DeVelin’s. Lori’s son Eddie experienced regression in his skills before receiving the necessary funding to participate in VASO. Now, he has access to behavioral supports, job training, and reliable transportation, providing Lori with peace of mind about his safety and future. “I have the comfort of knowing Eddie will be supervised properly and safe,” she said.
For families of younger teens on the spectrum, early preparation is essential. VASO and parent advocates strongly encourage caregivers to start planning as early as ages 14–15 by contacting their county Case Management office. Enrolling in waiver programs early can help families navigate the funding process and assess their child’s needs for behavioral and employment support.
“What we’re trying to avoid is having individuals graduate and then sit at home, losing the skills they worked so hard to develop,” explained Vista’s CEO. Programs like VASO help prevent this by ensuring individuals continue to grow and thrive into adulthood.
Parents like Amy Hudson and Becky Huhn are not only advocating for their own children but also working to raise awareness about the growing need for legislative changes to the funding system. With the prevalence of autism increasing rapidly, they emphasize that the system must evolve to meet the needs of the expanding population of individuals with autism.
“The legislators are going to have to look at redoing the system,” said Amy. “They’re going to need an exorbitant amount of funding to support these individuals, and they are not prepared.”
Programs like VASO offer hope and a clear path forward for families. As Becky Huhn explained, securing the right funding and supports could transform her son Ethan’s future: “He would have a program that provides him with meaningful opportunities and the behavioral support he needs to live a full life.”
Vista Autism Services remains committed to empowering families and individuals with autism through innovative programs and advocacy, helping to ensure that every individual has the chance to lead a meaningful and productive adult life.
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