REED Autism Services Launches the PATH Transition Program in Partnership with Felician University
Two-Year Post-Secondary Program Focuses on Career Readiness, Life Skills, and Community Engagement for Successful Transition to Adulthood
Oakland, NJ – REED Autism Services, a leader in programs and services for individuals with autism across their lifespan, has announced the launch of PATH, a two-year post-secondary certificate program in partnership with Felician University. Approved by the New Jersey Department of Education, PATH, which stands for Post-Secondary Achievement Through Hands-On Learning, is designed to impart crucial career readiness and life skills for students ages 18-21.
PATH blends dynamic classroom instruction with real-world application, emphasizing four key pillars: community engagement, employment, self-determination, and household/personal management. Classroom instruction is based on the licensed Learn4Independence® curriculum. The program also includes vocational training, equipping students with the tools for meaningful employment and independent living.
Sarah David, Director, PATH explains, “The transition to adulthood can be challenging for many autistic individuals, and traditional educational models may not fully address their needs. PATH offers a supportive environment where students can develop essential skills, forge meaningful connections, and gain confidence, all while experiencing life as part of a college community.”
Chantelle Walker, CEO, REED Autism Services, adds, “The launch of this critical programming is a testament to our commitment to addressing the needs of a growing autism community. We are thrilled to partner with Felician on this important initiative. As we continue to expand our reach in the autism community, PATH will undoubtedly make a profound difference in the lives of our students.”
Held on Felician University’s Rutherford campus, students can access Felician amenities, including the dining hall, fitness center, computer lab, gaming center, and study rooms. PATH students will receive individualized academic and social support to assist them with developing self-advocacy skills and integrating into the campus community.
Dr. Mildred Mihlon, president of Felician University said, “The PATH program aligns perfectly with Felician’s mission and vision. As an inclusive university, I am excited for the start of our collaborative effort with REED Autism Services and look forward to growing our support and programming for this important community of learners.”
An Open House will be held on May 7th from 6:30 pm-7:30 pm at Felician University. Virtual Information Sessions will be held on April 29th from 4:30-5:30 pm and on May 15, 2024 from 7-8 pm. Register at reedautismservices.org/path, or email pathinfo@reedautismservices.org to learn more.
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Contact:
Robyn Mait Levine, REED Autism Services, rmlevine@reedautismservices.org.
About REED Autism Services
REED Autism Services is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit family of programs and services for individuals with autism in Northern NJ. REED Academy offers exceptional educational services for students ages 3 to 21. Through REED Next Day and Residential, adults with autism ages 21 and older get the support they need to learn, live, work, and thrive within the community. Greens Do Good, a hydroponic, vertical farm, in Hackensack, provides meaningful job training and employment for teens and adults with autism. The REED Foundation for Autism fills crucial gaps as we pursue innovative solutions to address the complex challenges of a growing autism community. Learn more at reedautismservices.org.
About Felician University
Felician University is more than just an institute of higher learning. It is a community that inspires and engages over 2,100 undergraduate, graduate, and adult education students through programs in the Schools of Arts & Sciences, Business & Information Sciences, Nursing, and Education. Our commitment to our students’ success is evident in our rankings and recognitions. Over the past five years, Felician University has consistently ranked 3rd among private institutions in New Jersey for best value according to payscale.com and has been recognized as the #1 Safest College Campus in New Jersey according to niche.com. Our Master of Science in Nursing program is ranked one of the best online graduate nursing programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. We are proud to be designated as a Military Friendly School (Gold Status) for the thirteenth year, a testament to our strong support for Veteran students. Our diversity as an HSI (Hispanic Serving Institution) and MSI (Minority Serving Institution), with underrepresented students comprising more than half of the student population, is a reflection of our inclusive and supporting environment. With campuses in Rutherford and Lodi, New Jersey, the Franciscan values of social justice, compassion, and respect for human dignity serve as an inclusive foundation for transforming the lives of tomorrow’s leaders. For more information, please visithttps://felician.edu.
