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Empowering Young Adults with Autism to Reach Their Potential

Since 2014, empowering young adults with autism to achieve independence through experiential learning, serving students from across the United States.

TRANSFORMATIVE AUTISM PROGRAMS

A Transformative Approach to Autism Education

Meristem offers programs for young adults with autism that transform potential into independence. Through hands-on learning, personalized coaching, and real-world experiences, we help students build the skills and confidence for meaningful careers and independent living.

Our 13-acre Fair Oaks campus serves young adults from across the United States. We take a comprehensive approach to adult transition—addressing academic growth, vocational training, social development, and independent living—within a supportive community that celebrates neurodiversity and honors the unique perspectives each student brings.

Our Mission in Action

Meristem’s mission is made possible by supporters who believe in the abilities of young adults with autism spectrum disorder. Your generous contributions enable our autism transition program to provide students with ASD the comprehensive education and support they need to achieve greater independence and fulfillment.

Together, we’re building a world where autism is understood as a different way of experiencing life, where neurodiversity is celebrated, and where young adults with autism spectrum disorder have the opportunities they deserve to contribute their unique talents to society.

Learning by doing in metal working classes is one of Meristem's programs for young adults with autism.

Empowering Young Adults with Autism to Reach Their Potential

Meristem’s mission is made possible by supporters who believe in the abilities of young adults with autism spectrum disorder. Your generous contributions enable our autism transition program to provide students with ASD the comprehensive education and support they need to achieve greater independence and fulfillment.

Together, we’re building a world where autism is understood as a different way of experiencing life, where neurodiversity is celebrated, and where young adults with autism spectrum disorder have the opportunities they deserve to contribute their unique talents to society.

The Meristem Method

The Meristem Method

Proven Results for Autism Education “Our evidence-based approach to autism transition programming has been refined over years of working with young adults with ASD. The Meristem Method combines experiential learning, person-centered planning, and community integration to create transformative programs for young adults with autism spectrum disorder. Discover how our unique methodology prepares young adults with autism for lasting independence and success.

Learn About the Meristem Method

Proven Results for Autism Education “Our evidence-based approach to autism transition programming has been refined over years of working with young adults with ASD. The Meristem Method combines experiential learning, person-centered planning, and community integration to create transformative programs for young adults with autism spectrum disorder. Discover how our unique methodology prepares young adults with autism for lasting independence and success.

Learn About the Meristem Method

The Meristem Cafe is a place for students to engage in our transformative autism programs for young adults

Breaking
Workforce Barriers

Our Transformative Autism Program (TAP) bridges the gap between autism and employment success. Developed with input from young adults on the autism spectrum, TAP educates California employers on how to hire, train, and retain individuals with ASD—creating pathways to meaningful careers while promoting understanding of neurodiversity in the workplace.

A logo for a Meristem social enterprise program that supports young adults with autism

Real-World Learning for Students with Autism

Young adults with autism spectrum disorder gain authentic work experience through our student-operated social enterprises. At Meristem Café, students with ASD develop culinary and customer service skills while serving the community fresh, seasonal meals Wednesday thru Fridays from 11:30 AM to 2 PM. Through our Herbal Arts program, students with autism create handmade seasonal subscription boxes, building entrepreneurial skills while producing beautiful, functional items. These social enterprises provide real-world business experience that prepares young adults with autism for competitive employment.

Students participating in social activities is an example of how Meristem uses social activities to support its programs for young adults with autism.

Campus Life & Independent Living

Our lush 13-acre campus offers the perfect environment for young adults with autism to practice independent living skills while building lasting friendships. Located in Fair Oaks, California, just east of Sacramento, students with ASD enjoy access to trails, the American River, and a supportive community that embraces neurodiversity.

Measuring Success: Our Impact on Young Adults with Autism

The effectiveness of our transition programs for young adults with autism is demonstrated through the real outcomes achieved by young adults with ASD who graduate from Meristem. Our comprehensive approach to autism education produces measurable results in employment, independent living, and community participation. From increased job placement rates to enhanced quality of life indicators, our impact data shows how young adults with autism spectrum disorder thrive when provided with appropriate support and opportunities.

The Meristem Difference in Their Words

“What Meristem is doing is redefining how we understand autism and addressing one of the most significant challenges we face—creating meaningful opportunities for talented young adults with autism spectrum disorder.

Meristem’s autism transition program for young adults with autism is unique. There’s no equivalent program in our region, state, or nation that so effectively supports individuals with ASD while preparing them for independence.”

Darrell Steinberg
Former Mayor of Sacramento
Meristem Board Member

The Meristem Difference in Their Words

“What Meristem is doing is redefining how we understand autism and addressing one of the most significant challenges we face—creating meaningful opportunities for talented young adults with autism spectrum disorder.

Meristem’s autism transition program for young adults with autism is unique. There’s no equivalent program in our region, state, or nation that so effectively supports individuals with ASD while preparing them for independence.”

Darrell Steinberg
Former Mayor of Sacramento
Meristem Board Member

Get Involved: Supporting Young Adults with Autism

Students working in the Meristem Cafe learn valuable skills in one of our programs for young adults with autisms.

Support Our Social Enterprises

Experience the quality work of young adults with autism through our student-operated social enterprises. Purchase Herbal Arts subscription boxes created by students with ASD, dine at our café, or hire our catering services. Every purchase supports our autism transition program while providing real-world experience.

Parents of a student who completed our program for young adults with autism

Refer a Family/Student

Know a family with a young adult on the autism spectrum? Share information about our comprehensive autism transition program with families who could benefit from our services. Your referral could help a young adult with autism spectrum disorder discover their potential and achieve independence.

Employer internships are a part of our work skills program for young adults with autism.

Partner with Our Graduates

Create meaningful employment opportunities for young adults with autism spectrum disorder through our Transformative Autism Program (TAP). Learn how to successfully hire and retain employees with ASD while accessing our ongoing workplace support services.

Resources & Updates

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