YAP works with adults with developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders. We have worked with self-advocates and their families, as well as experts from various professional backgrounds, to develop a model for working with individuals with developmental disabilities and spectrum disorders that focuses on the importance of relationships, meaningful decision-making, self-determination and inclusion.

We serve individuals with developmental difference through relationships that foster inclusion by:

• Presuming Capacity: Acting and communicating based upon a belief in intellectual competence.
• Focusing on Prevention, Not Intervention: Accommodating and respecting variations in sensory sensitivities, communication, and movement and learning styles.
• Instilling Self-Advocacy: Promoting independence by fostering the skills, confidence and awareness that leads to a lifetime of success.

Our commitment and advocacy has extended beyond just direct service delivery into the development of the The ASSET Network. The ASSET Network promotes our philosophy and best practices for supporting individuals with differences through direct services, but also through a series of other supports that extend to the general community. For more information on the Center, click here.