Hi. I’m Michelle Rubin,

And I’m the founder of Autism After 21. 

I’m also a speaker, an advocate, a Gators fan, and a tennis player (any chance I get).

Most importantly? I’m a mom of three sons who are each unique in their own way and packed with personality. But they all share a passion for justice and living their life to their full potential. 

My eldest, Scott, was born with an autistic spectrum disorder. Scott has done incredible things, he currently works two part time jobs and leaves home by himself to get there. He is hoping to leave the nest and get an apartment soon, which is very exciting! Scott’s been a huge inspiration for my two other sons, and has impacted the whole family. He always wants to work and do better, pushing all of us to do the same!

Growing up, I didn’t see people like Scott. There was limited information about Autism and what is truly possible for those diagnosed on the spectrum. Disability used to mean invisibility. Accommodations were meant to appease; not to help build a strong foundation for the future. 

We learned with Scott. Sometimes our job was to make his life hard, to challenge him in ways he didn’t like and to make him uncomfortable. We didn’t know what our exact role was, but we knew it wasn’t going to be easy. We had to make him repeat tasks he hated in order to learn discipline and focus. We had to destroy the bubble he wanted to live in. And we had to constantly adjust and adapt our techniques, methods, and resources. 

As Scott grew, we knew he wanted to have a life. Our job was to get out of the way and ensure that he was prepared to be as independent as possible.

I founded Autism After 21 when Scott was 18 to provide young adults with autism spectrum disorders the life skills training they need to live more confidently, independently and functionally within our communities.

At Autism After 21, we are dedicated to exploring the capabilities for these young adults and providing the right support to promote physical and mental well-being through therapy, mentorship, employment, education, and social opportunities.

Our team mentors, educates and supports through our self-advocacy and pre-employment programs, and our signature SOAR program which immerses these young adults into a collegial experience to help them grow into themselves, connect with others and explore what is possible for their future.

Whether I am working and educating parents and students in our programs, having fun at our social opportunities for our community, or advocating at the state and federal level, my purpose is to open the minds of students and parents to have high expectations of their students’ abilities and know they never have to navigate this on their own.

Join our community and stay connected.