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Colin showed signs of significant developmental delays his first birthday. At 16 months, totally nonverbal and exhibiting many repetitive behaviors, he was diagnosed with autism. It wasn't long after that we were introduced to the concept of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the result it was having on children with autism. We learned about the Comprehensive learning Center (CLC) when Colin was 5, immediately applied for admission and approached our district for placement. Colin started at CLC when he was 6 years old. For the next 15 years, Colin learned basic life skills and daily tasks like how to dress himself, wash his face, take a shower, make simple meals, and do chores around the house, all independently. Most importantly, he learned how to handle frustration without reaching through tantrums. The staff at CLC identified what Colin needed to be successful in his daily activities so that frustration could be avoided altogether. 

In 2019, Colin graduated from CLC's Education Program and entered into its Adult Life Skills Program. Still under the mission of CLC, this program allows Colin to be more independent in our home and practice his work skills by volunteering in the community (pre-Covid). He works at a church where he prepares the program for the Sunday services and attends a local gym to work out several times a week. Colin's days give him a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, and he is now a contributing member of our family! He is happy and especially enjoys his Life Skills Coach, Maddy.

In the last 17 years, CLC has made a huge difference for Colin and our family. CLC has given Colin a structure for his life and the skills to make it one that is enriching and fulfilling. We are forever grateful to CLC and The AJ Foundation for all they have done for us." - Elsie, Colin's Mom