Community Living, Inc., a nonprofit based just outside of St. Louis, Missouri, is helping young adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities explore their options through a unique new program. The Young Adult Program follows a curriculum-based model designed to meet the needs and interests of young adults (ages 18-25) who desire more time to decide upon a future path with options including pre-employment, competitive employment, supported employment, or traditional day habilitation. Participants learn and practice key skills related to self-determination, social and community relations, and daily living.

“When we left the school, we didn’t know where to go,” said a father of one of the program’s participants. “The state had no options. No one had any options. There was nothing for her. And then we found the Young Adult Program.”

“I realized that it was a huge need for families when, before we even opened, I couldn’t keep up with the inquiries and the phone calls,” said Jenn Braden, the director of the program. Community Living has expanded the program to a second location with plans for a third, and began running a preparatory program for those on the waitlist, which continues to grow.

Because of our reputation for creative, compassionate, and high-quality program delivery, we were selected to share our story on All Access with Andy Garcia. You can catch our segment live on public access television in November 2025 or by watching online below.