Adult Autism Waiver Supports Coordination

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What We Believe In—and What We Do

Here’s what guides our work every day:

  • People have the right to make choices and have control over their lives.
  • Everyone should have access to real opportunities for community involvement and connection.
  • The support system should be easy to understand and navigate.
  • Quality services depend on skilled, thoughtful staff who are well-trained and supported.

Adult Autism Waiver (AAW) Supports Coordination Organization

CRI is an approved Supports Coordination Organization (SCO) through the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations (BSASP) under the direction of the Office of Developmental Programs and the Department of Human Services.

All of our Adult Autism Waiver (AAW) supports coordinatorprofessionals are trained in the LifeCourse Framework—which was created to help individuals and families of all abilities and ages develop a vision for a good life. The approach helps in planning for the future, connecting with needed supports and services, and focusing on the individuals desired goal areas like work, relationships, daily living, community inclusion etc.

CRI’s work is guided by the Everyday Lives: Values in Actionphilosophy. Developed by the Information Sharing & Advisory Committee (ISAC), this philosophy outlines specific values that influence our approach to adult autism support: Communication; Self Direction, Choice, and Control; Employment; Supporting Families; Health, Wellness and Safety; Supporting Complex Needs; Qualified Staff; Simplifying the System; Improved Quality; Community Living; Community Participation; Community Services; Future Innovations; Racial Equity.

The Supports Coordinators Role:

Supports Coordination involves the location, coordination, and monitoring of needed services and supports. The Supports Coordinator (SC) assists participants in obtaining and coordinating needed waiver and other State plan services, as well as housing, medical, social, vocational, and other community services, regardless of funding source. Supports and Services available under the Adult Autism waiver can be located in theSupports and Services Directory.  

We are committed to quality supports coordination services, respecting individuals’ needs and desires. Our staff are trained and are supported by supervisors in the field. We work with families, caregivers, supports and provider teams in addition to the individual for effective collaboration.

Are You Eligible for the Adult Autism Waiver?

If you’ve already been approved for the Adult Autism Waiver, we encourage you to reach out today. Our autism supports coordinationteam is available to help you move forward with the services you’re eligible to receive. You can speak with someone directly at 814-838-7222 EXT 1026.

Not yet on the Adult Autism Waiver? You can request an application by calling the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations at 1-866-539-7689. They’ll help you start the process or go online:

GET SUPPORT

Adult Autism Support through CRI

CRI provides three services for the Adult Autism population. 

Adult Autism Support in Pa.

Adult autism support at CRI focuses on building meaningful, collaborative relationships that empower individuals and their support networks.

We prioritize communication, consistency, and trust. Our autism support coordinationteam is trained to work directly with individuals, their families, and their wider care teams to ensure the support being provided is person-centered and focused on realistic goals. This support is grounded in these key values:

  • Making people feel heard,
  • Staying accessible,
  • Being organized, and
  • Maintaining open and respectful dialogue.

Supporting Diverse Needs and Lifelong Growth

CRI believes that autism support for adultsmust reflect the complexity of life. Our autism supports coordinationservices recognize that individuals may need different supports at different stages. That might include help finding stable housing, participating in community events, or developing new routines after major life changes.

We also understand that families and caregivers play a crucial role. We work closely with families to ensure they feel supported, too, whether through education, coordination, or resource connection. Our team helps create support systems that are sustainable and meaningful—not just reactive.

We focus on long-term growth. For individuals with complex needs, we coordinate with qualified professionals to ensure all services are aligned. For example, some may benefit from occupational therapy to build skills for daily living, work readiness, or social interaction. We help facilitate that connection and maintain communication across service providers.

Increasing Access, Building Skills

Increasing access to employment and community life is a central part of our mission. Many adults on the autism spectrum want to work, learn new skills, and build independent lives. Through autism support coordination, we help individuals explore those opportunities and remove barriers that may get in the way.

This could involve finding programs focused on skill development, securing job coaching, or exploring transportation options. It’s also about building confidence and recognizing success at every step.

At the same time, we support people in improving their health, safety, and wellness. This can involve helping manage appointments, understanding health care needs, or addressing risks that may not always be obvious. For those needing occupational therapy for autistic adults, we collaborate with the appropriate professionals to support everyday routines and increase independence.

Get Support to Stay Where You Feel Most Comfortable

If you are ready to have a helping hand but are unsure of where to begin, our Care Reps can help you build a program that works for you and your unique needs. To schedule a teleconference or in-person consultation, please call 1-800-530-5541 or complete the form.