Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College launches new program to introduce students with autism into college life

Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College is introducing a new program that will help students with autism and other diagnoses settle into college life. The program, LifeWorks Bridge Academy, is coming to the college’s Whitesburg campus thanks to LifeWorks for Autism, a nonprofit organization that aims to help individuals with autism find their strengths, achieve their goals, and live independently.

According to an article on Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College’s website, Dr. Lee Harrison, the college’s president, is quoted as saying of the new program, “This initiative brings together our focus on academic and career development with LifeWorks’ strength in personalized support and daily living skills. By combining academic guidance with practical life skills, we’re helping students build confidence and independence as they take the next steps in their journey.”

The program is launching at the Whitesburg campus, though students from other campuses are encouraged to look into the program and apply if they are interested, as other campuses will be served based upon student interest. Students who have a documented autism diagnosis will likely be able to participate in the program for free thanks to funding from the college’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

LifeWorks Bridge Academy will provide students with numerous support services and resources to ensure students have all the tools they need to succeed in a college setting. The program provides students with one-on-one coaching, progress meetings, enrichment activities, and structured study sessions. In addition to academic assistance, students will receive guidance on working toward independent living, with curriculum that includes financial literacy, health and wellness, and career readiness, among other topics.

LifeWorks for Autism is a nonprofit organization that seeks to assist individuals with autism and families whose children have autism diagnoses navigate resources and work toward success. The nonprofit started the LifeWorks Bridge Academy to help students with autism transition from high school into the independent, adult lifestyle associated with life on a college campus.

For more information about Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College, visit the school’s website.