Abstract
The intended audience for this proposal is the American River College (ARC) Disabled Student Programs & Services (DSPS) Administration. This proposal was created in hopes that it will be utilized by the ARC’s DSPS department. The intention of the proposal was to provide an additional resource to serve the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) population. Currently, there are no support groups specifically targeting the soft skills and interpersonal skills of students with autism at ARC. Research shows that the autism population is increasing and many are now transitioning to college. Awareness as well as the changing diagnosis throughout the years could be contributing factors to the increased rate of autism. The proposal was created to serve the current population as well as the expected increase of students with autism. Data were obtained using various resources and methods, including online research databases, peer-reviewed journal articles, books, live presentation, video presentation, and personal interviews of the presenters. Further data were obtained through conversations and interviews with ARC DSPS employees, other DSPS counselors within the region, prior graduates of the Vocational Rehabilitation program, and relevant websites providing information on the support group needs of students with autism. Limited studies exist detailing the current use of a support group for students with autism; however, studies show students with autism have a greater chance of success with ongoing support services in college. The limited information available on autism as it presents in adults substantiates the need for further research in the future. As more data regarding needs of and services for students in college become available with future research, this author recommends this proposal be updated as needed.