Show Notes

Discover what’s possible when success is measured in belonging.


What happens to autism services after an autistic person turns 22? The transition into adulthood can be very complex for autistic individuals. In the US, aging out of the school system means losing access to most social, educational, and vocational resources. And, unfortunately, only 15% of adults with disabilities find paid employment. 


If you’re the parent of an autistic child, you’ll want to listen to this throwback episode with mother and author Cammie McGovern, where she talks about redefining success for autistic adults. This episode was originally released on September 16, 2021.


At the time of recording, Cammie had just published a book titled Hard Landings: Looking into the Future of a Child with Autism. She has also authored three novels for adults, including Eye Contact; two books for young adults, Say What You Will and A Step Toward Falling; and two books for middle-grade readers, Just My Luck and Chester and Gus. All of them feature young characters with a variety of disabilities. Cammie is also one of the founders of Whole Children and Milestones, a resource center for children and young adults with disabilities, and their families, in Hadley, Massachusetts.


In today’s conversation, we discuss:



  • The “Disability Cliff” for autistic adults who turn 22

  • Varying types of autism services available for adults in the US

  • The shift away from institutional settings and sheltered workshops towards community-based services

  • The overlooked value of congregate settings


To learn more about Cammie McGovern, please visit cammiemcgovern.com.


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