With a mission to help all children reach their full potential, The Founders Center of Commonwealth Autism (TFC) operates programs at multiple sites in the Richmond area, serving individuals with a variety of needs. “Our ultimate goal is for children to receive services in the least restrictive setting possible. We frequently partner with other community programs to assist in achieving these outcomes,” explains TFC Director Courtney Vaughan.
The Founders Center has been a program of Commonwealth Autism since 2012. Their programs utilize Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to provide educational and behavioral services for children ages 2-22. This includes two Early Childhood programs at Clover Hill Christian Academy and All Saints Episcopal Preschool, a Founders Center Transition Program for youth ages 12-22, housed at their headquarters on Parham Road, a school-age educational program at Northstar Academy for children ages 5-12, and additional behavioral services for school-age children in multiple locations. Richmond House, a program for adults that offers residential and community supports, is also a program of The Founders Center.
Programming at The Founders Center for each child starts with an assessment of his or her needs. “We look at the educational and behavioral strengths and needs of each individual and design a service plan to meet their goals,” shares Emily Schwab, TFC Program Manager. “As their skills increase, we look for opportunities to practice these skills with typical peers.” TFC’s newest program in development is their Behavioral Services for school-age children. Supports within this program can be tailored to individual needs and may include part-time or full-time options in a variety of settings, including their current preschool program.
All programs offer rolling admission and are licensed by either the Virginia Department of Education or the Virginia Department of Social Services. Many behavioral services may be covered by insurance.
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