Independence
These resources are designed to help young adults with autism navigate the world as independently as possible.
Search within Independence resources
Navigating the Adult Justice System
The following resources have been created by The Office of Developmental Programs in collaboration with William F. Ward, Retired Judge, Alleghany County, PA. These resources and self-guided Prezi presentation are intended for supporters to better understand the Pennsylvania justice process and identify places to engage, advocate, and intervene.
Read moreNavigating the Juvenile Justice System
The purpose of this guide is to help parents better understand the juvenile justice process, particularly how it works for a child with a disability. This guide will walk parents through each stage of the process, pointing out the places where the parent’s input is especially important.
Read moreNew Guidelines for COVID-19: A Tip Sheet For Self-Advocates
This resource provides information on updated COVID-19 guidelines, including quarantine instructions and timelines.
Read moreNot Feeling Well Social Story
This social story, developed by ASERT, describes how and when to tell someone when you are sick. An animated social story is also included.
Read moreNoticing Signs of Mental Health
It is natural to experience emotional ups and downs. Life events affect everyone, and some of us are more vulnerable to experiencing mental health challenges because of life events both past and present. This resource provides information identify, intervene and prevent mental illness.
Read moreOccupational Therapy Information Sheet for Individuals with Autism
This information sheet answers questions about Occupational Therapy such as: what it is, what it does, how it can help individuals with autism, and how to find an occupational therapist.
Read moreOccupational Therapy’s Role with Autism
Occupational therapy services are focused on helping with performance of activities of daily living (e.g., feeding, dressing), instrumental activities of daily living (e.g., community mobility, safety procedures), education, work, leisure, play, and social participation. For an individual with autism, occupational therapy services are defined according to the person’s needs and desired goals and priorities for participation.
Read moreOffice of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH)
This website provides information about the services and supports available to individuals through the Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing within the Department of Labor and Industry.
Read moreOffice of Vocational Rehabilitation Resource Collection
This resource collection consolidates all our OVR resources in one place.
Read moreOlder Adults Protective Services
Elder abuse and crimes targeting older people and older people with disabilities are a real issue that come in many forms, including neglect, physical, financial, and sexual abuse. Learn how to stay safe and report suspected abusers.
Read moreOnline Scams – Social Story
This resource developed by ASERT explains the problems you might come across while online shopping and how to stay safe.
Read moreOracle Health Foundation
Dedicated to transforming health care through innovative technology and practices.
Read moreOrganization for Autism Research (OAR)
Offering support to self-advocates, parents, siblings, teachers, military families, and more.
Read morePA 211 Southwest
With one phone number, callers gain free, confidential access to thousands of programs and services that can help improve the quality of their lives.
Read morePA Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF)
Helping individuals with disabilities and older Pennsylvanians acquire the assistive technology devices and services they want.
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