Our Services
Autism Community Alliance provides recreation and skill-building services for young adults (ages 18+) with autism, intellectual disability, or a related condition.
Programming is offered in small groups or 1:1, depending on support needs identified during intake. When appropriate, families may also use their camper’s existing personal care attendant to support consistency and continuity of care.
Meeting Each Camper With Person-Centered Care, Trust, and Understanding
Many who join our program have spent long periods at home with family or a personal caregiver and are now looking for meaningful, community-based engagement. We understand that stepping into a new environment can take trust, and we work hard to make every camper and family feel welcomed, valued, and supported. We also encourage families to share their insights and recommendations, so we can tailor each person’s experience and meet them where they are and encourage new experiences as they acclimate and become comfortable.
Day Program Overview
Our day program provides skill-based learning and meaningful engagement for young adults with autism, intellectual disability, or related developmental needs. Each day features structured activities, visual supports, sensory-friendly options, and community outings designed to build confidence, independence, and real-world skills. ACA campers practice communication, life skills, and social interaction in a supportive 1:1 or small-group setting.
We begin each activity with a short YouTube tutorial to introduce the craft, recipe, or project for the day. Campers are encouraged to create their own version—and while it often turns out different from the example, that’s part of the fun. This process helps reduce rigid thinking, encourages flexibility, and celebrates individual creativity.
1:3 coaching for more independent, lower support needs. $100 for 5 hour day.
1:1 coaching for those with high support needs (bring their personal aide). $75 for a 5 hour day.
ACA may be able to assist locating an aide for a placement fee of $150 per quarter and families will pay the aide directly.
Benefits of Our Program
Builds confidence and independence through community participation
Encourages flexible thinking and creativity through hands-on projects
Provides predictable routines that reduce anxiety and promote success
Strengthens communication, social interaction, and daily living skills
Offers individualized support in a 1:1 or small-group setting
Helps campers generalize skills in real-world environments
Can choose how many days a week prefer be it 1, 2, 3 days
Operate year round and only take off major Federal Holidays
Maximum staff to client ratio is 1:3
Allow families to utilize outside supports during our programming hours
Ready to Apply?
Click on our Apply Now button on the Header, and we’ll follow up to schedule a virtual assessment and discuss next steps. Plenty of time will be allowed to answer all your questions!
During our intake assessment, we will also review local and federal government resources to ensure you are aware of programs that may support your family and help cover service fees. Our Executive Director has extensive knowledge of both the CCC+ and DD Waivers and has helped many families navigate these systems. Her experience includes serving as a volunteer Board Member with Parents of Autistic Children of Northern Virginia, as well as working as a contractor for the Endependence Center of Northern Virginia, Partnership for People with Disabilities and the Arc of Northern Virginia.
