Emmalyn Lopez's Contact Details

Emmalyn Lopez's Company Details

Urban Autism Solutions

Chicago, IL, US • 10 - 19 Employees
Non-Profit

Founded in 2012, Urban Autism Solutions is dedicated to changing outcomes for young adults with autism through an integrated community life that advances social and vocational opportunities. UAS was established in 2012 by Julie and Michael Tracy, whose son John was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at the age of two. As John grew older his challenges, like 60% of young adults with ASD, were complicated by a diagnosis of mental health conditions. Young adults with ASD and their families face many obstacles, including a precarious transition into adulthood and the urgent need to find suitable living environments, social opportunities, mental health management and employment. Many young adults with ASD can work and participate fully in community life. Yet even after eight years of leaving high school, only 3% ever achieve paid employment. UAS is working hard to change the outcomes for more than 35 young adults each year through our hands-on vocational training program at our nationally recognized Growing Solutions Farm. Our 1.2 acre produce farm not only teaches participants transferable job skills, but allows them to work with graduate students in Speech and Language Pathology and Occupational Therapy. Additionally, our vocational program coordinators and consultants work to create an individualized array of opportunities for young adults with autism. We identify and create opportunities for internships and employment and provide instruction and coaching for each participant, This includes areas related to specific job skills, social behavior, interview preparation, resume development, schedule organization and much more. Additionally, UAS offers more than 125 social programs annually. From Urban Hikes with our own, Mike Tracy, to monthly meet-ups at a local restaurant where we play board games and eat pizza, to parties, movie nights, Saturday night outings, It's Just Lunch, Light it up Blue and so much more.