“Giving students skills to be able to explore careers and then have the tools necessary to get a job.” 

SOAR stands for: Summer Opportunity for Adult Readiness and is an immersive program offering chances to experience post-secondary opportunities and explore career readiness and preparation. 

SOAR began in the summer of 2015, and we have continued to grow each summer. We are hosting students on campus for 11 days of residential experience as part of the SOAR program. The Summer of 2025 will have SOAR on the FAU campus in Boca Raton for three sessions and one session on the FIU campus in Miami. Each session will be run for a particular type of student. Read the session descriptions to find the best fit.

SOAR is the only rsidntial job readiness experience of its kind in South Florida.

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For young adults on the autism spectrum over age 18, SOAR provides the opportunity to gain independence, learn job readiness and hone important social skills needed to be successful in the workplace. 

Student Eligibility Requirements:

Applicants must:

Have a documented disability on the autism or Asperger’s spectrum and/or related developmental disability

Be at least 18 years of age for SOAR 

Be capable of meeting personal needs without assistance (dressing, showering, shaving, and toileting)

Be able to self-administer any necessary medication

Have no disruptive violent, bullying behaviors or violent tendencies

No history of running or leaving school/home unsupervised

Have the capability to participate in multiple 50 to 90-minute classes daily

Navigate the campus independently with guidance from counsellors, involves lots of walking

Live in a group dorm setting and compromise with roommates

Be interested in learning steps to employment, social skills, post-secondary education opportunities, and independent living

Participation in all activities and classes is mandatory

Parents/Guardians may be asked for copies of IEP, psychological evaluations

Eligibility with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is strongly recommended, this service is supported by VR

Partners

Registration information for SOAR 2025 is now available

Contact: Michelle Rubin with questions: michellerubin@autismafter21.org

 

If you are not ready to register but would like to stay informed, please send us a message below.

The SOAR program curriculum focuses on: career exploration and employment, executive function/independent living, self-confidence, social skills, self-determination, financial management, relationship building and good health practices.

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On-the-Job Training and Self Advocacy