Meristem

Meristem is a day and independent living skills program that develops practical life skills, social capacities, and transition to work for young adults aged 18-29 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders that can cause developmental problems in the areas of social interaction, speech, language, communication, and behavioral functions. ASD is the fastest growing developmental disability in the U.S. In California alone, the incidence of ASD has increased 12-fold in the past two decades, with the ASD population increasing by an average of 12% per year. It is estimated that there will be a 300% increase in the number of young adults with ASD needing vocational training services by 2020, with continued increases thereafter as these young adults continue to "age out" of the education system.

The Journal of American Academy and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry estimated that 90% of young adults with autism were unemployed or underemployed. The report noted that, compared to other young adults with disabilities, people with autism are often unemployed until late in their twenties and have the lowest rates of employment at just 58%. Even when employed, a young adult with autism has an average pay of only $8.00 an hour.

The growing demand for programs here in the United States that focus on young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental differences has reached a critical level. In response to this critical need, Meristem opened the Sacramento campus in 2014 on a 13-acre site in Fair Oaks. Our model originates from the Ruskin Mill Trust that has decades of experience developing and scaling curriculum and programs for young adults with ASD throughout England, helping thousands of students develop independent living skills, establish friendships and participate in meaningful work experience in inclusive communities. This proven method allows students to gain a positive view of themselves, which translates to the ability to contribute more fully to society and transition to work or higher education.

Meristem's mission is to prepare young adults on the autism spectrum to build a strong sense of self, develop an enhanced social capacity, and create a life of increased social and economic independence. Our vision is a world where the unique capabilities of adults on the spectrum are respected and appreciated.

We provide this foundation by optimizing the capacity for our students, allowing them to realize their full potential. Our program targets young adults from 18-30 years of age with Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), promoting independence by developing life skills, social capacities, and transition to work. Because of the significant increase in the number of individuals diagnosed with ASD, there is a growing need for programs that provide these individuals with the knowledge and tools to enable them to fully engage in their communities, advocate on their own behalf and experience well-rounded success, while at the same time facilitating Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) and access to higher education.

The program begins with the fundamentals, such as cultivating a sense of responsibility around time and learning to select appropriate attire. Our students learn resiliency, consistency and other attributes needed to self-manage. They develop social skills through active listening, following directions and working with others. In focused workshops, students learn the finer points of resume writing, researching work opportunities and practicing interviewing technique. Finally, our students undergo specific skill training, either in the classroom or in one of the social enterprises. Students are also supported in working part-time off-campus with businesses and nonprofits.