Family Service of the Chautauqua Region is launching a new program aimed at supporting young adults with high-functioning autism or other developmental disabilities who are transitioning to independent living, as well as providing resources for their caregivers.

The program, Life Launch: Learning Independence and Functional Engagement, is designed to help participants build independence, strengthen communication skills, and develop social connections in a supportive group setting.

Program organizers say the initiative addresses a growing need in the community for services that support individuals as they transition into adulthood. The transition often poses significant hurdles for young adults with developmental disabilities, who frequently face a “service cliff” when the structured support of the school system ends. Navigating employment, managing independent households, overcoming social isolation, and mastering executive functioning skills–like budgeting and scheduling–can feel overwhelming without a dedicated framework.

“Young adulthood can be a challenging time of transition,” said Julie Chipman, clinical director at Family Service. “Life Launch is about creating a space where participants can grow at their own pace while building confidence and real-world skills.”

The program will include separate but complementary opportunities for both the young adults and their caregivers. Young adult participants will engage in structured activities focused on communication, self-advocacy, independent living skills, and social interaction. Caregivers will participate in guided discussions, sharing experiences and learning practical strategies to support their loved ones through this transition.

Meetings will be held at the Landmark Restaurant in Jamestown, which has offered its banquet room – accessible off of Monroe Street – for the group sessions. Young adults will meet twice monthly while caregiver groups will meet once a month.

Those interested in participating can register by calling Family Service of the Chautauqua Region at 716-488-1971 or enrolling through the Family Service of the Chautauqua Region website at familyservicechq.org/ and clicking the “MAKE AN APPOINTMENT” box. There will be an option to select LIFE Launch group from the list of available services. Those registering will be contacted by the office to set up a screening appointment where more information will be gathered to help tailor the group to each participant’s goals and needs. The anticipated start date for the group is June 22 at 5 p.m. The time may be modified based on participant input.