Everyone wants to be connected to friends, family, and their community, and to work, learn, and be respected for their choices. People on the Autism Spectrum are no different. Via helps individuals develop social skills, create peer networks, and explore vocational opportunities so they may lead successful independent lives.
Autism Services
What Does Via Autism Services Provide?
Via provides adults with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis (ASD) with the resources to connect with each other and community resources to explore their talents and potential. Vocational, educational, and recreational activities are provided.
Via of the Lehigh Valley is an Autism Waiver provider through the Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs’ Bureau of Autism Services.
What is the Adult Autism Waiver?
The Adult Autism Waiver is a State of Pennsylvania Medical Assistance program that provides home and community-based services specifically designed to help adults with an autism spectrum disorder participate in their communities in the way they want to. More information on the PA Adult Autism Waiver, including eligibility and applying for the waiver, is available on the PA Department of Public Welfare website.
For more information, contact:
Julianna Dueh, Autism Services Coordinator
J.Dueh@ViaNet.org | 610-317-8000 x483
Community Mentoring and Habilitation
Our Autism Services provide an individualized approach to social and life skills development. Adults participate in vocational, social, and independent living activities that are tailored to their needs and interests. They take an active role in planning their schedules and developing goals and objectives for each activity.
Independent living skills are addressed through a combination of community experiences and activities in the home. Staff educate participants on a variety of life skills, such as the use of public transportation, understanding housing options, and the importance of money management.
What Vocational Training and Opportunities Are Available?
Via partners with employers, local agencies, and institutions of higher education throughout the Lehigh Valley. Through these partnerships, we provide:
- Career interest inventories
- Job shadowing, job site visits, and career exploration
- Mock interviews with human resource managers at Lehigh Valley companies
- Resume preparation
- Inclusive learning and volunteer activities
- Recreational opportunities
How Can I Engage with My Community?
Our staff work with individuals to tailor recreational and community activities to their personal preferences. Activities vary depending on interests but may include sporting events, cultural events, art classes, and various community and social activities.
Engaging with the community through volunteerism is highly encouraged. Volunteering is a wonderful way to explore vocational opportunities, learn new skills, and meet new people.
Volunteer sites include:
- 6th Street Food Bank
- 6th Street Shelter
- Allentown YMCA/YWCA
- Bethlehem YMCA
- Boys & Girls Club of Allentown
- Boys and Girls Club
- Good Shepherd
- Lehigh Valley Arts Council
- Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce
- Lehigh Valley Health Network
- Luthercrest
- Meals on Wheels
- Phoebe Home
- Salvation Army
Systematic Skill Building
What is Systematic Skill Building?
Systematic Skill Building helps people reach their goals and objectives using applied behavioral analysis, a method proven effective for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Using task analyses and other tools rooted in Systematic Instruction, Via’s Systematic Skill Specialists develop step-by-step plans to teach individuals a variety of tasks and skills. By spending time observing an individual receiving this support, the Skill Specialist ensures the Systematic Skill Plan provides the appropriate level of support in every phase of teaching a new skill.
Individuals receive feedback regarding their progress in a way that is empirical and meaningful for future planning. Ongoing support and instruction are provided to ensure the plan is implemented consistently by all team members, in order to create an environment that facilitates successful learning opportunities.
Who Is Eligible for Systematic Skill Building?
This service is offered to individuals who receive funding through the Adult Autism Waiver.
FAQs
What is Autism?
Autism and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors.
Autism has its roots in early brain development. However, the most obvious signs of autism and symptoms of autism tend to emerge between 12 and 18 months of age. Some infants and toddlers begin to develop normally until the second year of life when they lose skills and develop autism – a pattern called “regression.”
What does it mean to be “On the Spectrum?”
Each individual with autism is unique. Many of those on the autism spectrum have exceptional abilities in visual skills, music, and academic skills. About 40 percent have intellectual disability (IQ less than 70), and many have normal to above average intelligence. About 25 percent of individuals with ASD are nonverbal but can learn to communicate using other means.
What is an Autism Waiver?
The Adult Autism Waiver is a State of Pennsylvania Medical Assistance program that provides home and community-based services specifically designed to help adults with an autism spectrum disorder participate in their communities in the way they want to. More information on the PA Adult Autism Waiver, including eligibility and applying for the waiver, is available on the PA Department of Public Welfare website.
