Overview
Lifespan Services at Have Dreams
Have Dreams is a comprehensive, 501(c)(3) nonprofit autism resource center serving individuals across the entire autism spectrum, as well as families and professionals seeking best-practice resources and support. All services are based on the Structured Teaching method, developed by Division TEACCH at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. At their core, our programs stress the development of social, communication and independent living skills. We offer direct services for children, teens and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), training and consultation for educators and other professionals, and support services for families, caregivers and individuals with ASD. Have Dreams staff are highly skilled and trained in best practices. Individuals are enrolled in programs based on an extensive intake session with the individual and their family, conducted by Have Dreams staff.
We have programs for all ages and stages of life and for all abilities across the spectrum. Whether your child is newly diagnosed with autism, looking to connect with peers after school, or a young adult/adult exploring independent living skills and/or career options, we have a program for you.
Note: Some of our programs have ongoing enrollment throughout the year, while others have specific registration sessions that follow our program calendar. For more information about all the programs we offer, click here or contact us at info@havedreams.org.
| Children, Teens & Young Adult Programs Adult Programs |
 WeeDream |
 After-SchoolSCILS & Games |
 Tech Club |
 Teen &Young Adult Club |
 Career Launch |
 Life SCILS |
 Have DreamsAcademy |
After-School and Weekend Programs
Have Dreams’ Social, Communication and Independent Living Skills Program (SCILS) – for preschoolers, children and teens
SCILS is our year-round, after-school and weekend program comprised of a variety of classes held at our Park Ridge and Evanston locations. A wide selection of programs are offered for a range of groups and ability levels. Participants learn new concepts and are able to practice and expand social skills and language in a comfortable and familiar environment.
Adult Employment Programs
For individuals with autism 16 and older
The goal of Have Dreams’ employment programs is to help adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) learn and improve upon transferrable skills necessary to be successful in employment. All of the participants in our vocational programs participate in internships and 90% of our program graduates secured competitive, inclusive employment upon completion of their internship. In addition to allowing graduates to help support themselves, we expect these first jobs to open opportunities to begin to build a career.
Life SCILS Program
For adults with autism 18 years and older
Have Dreams’ Life SCILS program is a community-based program that serves young adults with autism post-high school. The program is a balance of job training though volunteer commitments and internships, fitness at the YMCA, and community engagement. These experiences focus on creasing independence, communication and social skills with peers in an inclusive community.
