Find helpful links, forms, guides, and tools all in one place. Resources are available for multiple Lifeworks programs, including Family Support and the Autism Support Center.
Autism Support Center
At Lifeworks
Our Autism Support Center (ASC) provides individualized assistance, resources, and community-based programming to more than 900 families and individuals annually. The Center supports both children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as their caregivers, by offering service navigation, workshops, support groups, and enriching recreational opportunities. Our experienced team includes professionals trained in autism service navigation, social work, behavioral supports, and community inclusion. Lifeworks staff include certified PEERS® facilitators and DDS-authorized Waiver Brokers.
WHAT WE OFFER
Supports and Services for Children and Families
- Service Navigation: Our team helps families access services and benefits such as DDS, MassHealth, ABA therapy, and more. We assist with applications, printing, copying, and mailing.
- Informational Resources: We maintain an up-to-date referral list of professionals including pediatricians, advocates, neurologists, attorneys, psychiatrists, music therapists, and more.
- Recreation & Social Programs: Year-round social and recreational opportunities for all ages—from children to adults—including sports, arts, outdoor activities, and family fun days.
- School Vacation Programs: Specialized programming during February and April school vacation weeks for children and young adults with developmental disabilities. Both drop-off and whole-family events are offered.
- Support Groups: Peer support groups are available for parents, grandparents, and other caregivers throughout the year.
- Workshops & Trainings: We offer educational workshops on topics such as IEPs, basic rights, financial planning, behavioral interventions, and more. In partnership with the Family Support Program, we also host a Transition Training Series covering topics like Guardianship, DDS eligibility, and SSI.
- DDS Children’s Autism Waiver: Lifeworks serves as a Waiver Broker for eligible families referred by DDS, helping them access intensive services through this MassHealth-funded program.
- Information & Referral: We assist individuals and families in understanding and accessing services such as DDS, MassHealth, Social Security, and DMH. Application support, printing, and mailing assistance are provided.
- Workshops & Trainings: Expert-led sessions on financial planning, housing, relationships, social media use, guardianship, and more. Trainings are open to individuals and caregivers.
- Social & Recreation Programs: In-person and virtual programming year-round. Activities are often community-based and inspired by ideas from the individuals we serve. Includes arts, sports, outdoor adventures, and social skills practice.
- Community Connections & Partnerships: We collaborate with a wide network of community partners—including police departments (via the ALEC law enforcement training program), local businesses, employers, mental health providers, and advocacy organizations.
- Support, Networking & Mentorship: We offer peer support groups and partner with other organizations to expand these opportunities. Staff certified in the PEERS® Social Skills Program help foster mentorship and volunteer connections.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
Our services are available to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families living in the DDS Newton/South Norfolk area. Some services may require DDS eligibility or a referral.
CONTACT US
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SERVICE AREA
We proudly serve individuals and families in the DDS Newton/South Norfolk Area, including:
Canton, Dedham, Foxboro, Medfield, Millis, Norfolk, Norwood, Plainville, Sharon, Walpole, Westwood, Wrentham, and nearby communities.
