Beacon Transitions has been helping young adults on the Autism Spectrum strive to meet incremental goals of independence for almost a decade. At the core of their programming is an emphasis on supporting the pursuit of higher education goals for clients who often struggle to process and assimilate information in conventional settings. Beacon has historically supported their clients in their pursuit of college credits by acquiring special accommodations, which allow their students to receive the support of Beacon Staff, in and outside the classroom. The Covid-19 pandemic has significantly shifted the landscape of higher education for students with learning disabilities, and Beacon has responded by tailoring their services even further to support their clients needs.

Through working with Blue Ridge Community College and ramping up covid testing and safety precautions, Beacon has enabled their clients to continue taking classes, as well as providing ongoing tutoring and one-on-one coaching. 

Beacon Transitions has outfitted their administrative offices and classrooms to accommodate a safe and separate learning environment, where their clients can continue to attend college courses virtually, and receive the support they need to be successful. This includes special accommodations for students with learning disabilities, a 1:1 tutor to student ratio, and advances in technology and supplies related to students coursework. For clients pursuing a degree that requires in-person classes, Beacon has taken extra precautions for Covid-testing, and secured permission for staff to remain on campus to support clients through the school day. 

With over eight years of serving Young Adult men on the Autism Spectrum, Beacon Transitions, located south of Asheville, NC brings a novel, collaborative approach to helping their Clients achieve targeted milestones of achievement. Using a community method, Beacon, with their licensed staff and coalition of Mental Health Treatment Providers, Local Business Leaders, and Educational/Vocational professionals understand and support their clients in a way they often haven’t experienced their entire lives.