About our Housing
Autism Communities is committed to fostering inclusive living environments for neurodiverse individuals. In response to the community on Long Island, earlier this year we expanded our housing support to include both individuals with autism and/or intellectual developmental disabilities.
Through partnerships with local developers and community stakeholders, Autism Communities offers affordable and creative housing solutions on Long Island, integrating our residents into their local communities. It's important to note that Autism Communities is not an intentional community, but rather a facilitator of inclusive living environments.
We provide non-certified housing options, and all residents are self-directed through New York State's Office for People with Development Disabilities (OPWDD). Direct support professionals are supplied through each resident's self-direction budget.
Our model continues to expand beyond our current locations, driven by opportunities that arise which are suitable to the needs of our potential residents. Presently, we closely collaborate with Greenview Properties in identifying affordable apartments located in the Town of Islip. Through these partnerships and our commitment to inclusivity, we strive to provide diverse housing options that foster independence and support for individuals within the community.
Through partnerships with local developers and community stakeholders, Autism Communities offers affordable and creative housing solutions on Long Island, integrating our residents into their local communities. It's important to note that Autism Communities is not an intentional community, but rather a facilitator of inclusive living environments.
We provide non-certified housing options, and all residents are self-directed through New York State's Office for People with Development Disabilities (OPWDD). Direct support professionals are supplied through each resident's self-direction budget.
Our model continues to expand beyond our current locations, driven by opportunities that arise which are suitable to the needs of our potential residents. Presently, we closely collaborate with Greenview Properties in identifying affordable apartments located in the Town of Islip. Through these partnerships and our commitment to inclusivity, we strive to provide diverse housing options that foster independence and support for individuals within the community.
Explore the current housing locations at Greenview Properties, where we currently have residents living at Westbrook Village in East Islip and North District Lofts in Bay Shore.
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Housing Criteria
In our commitment to identifying candidates for housing, Autism Communities has implemented a structured process. This process helps individuals and their circles of support navigate the necessary steps, as well as provide recommendations to qualify for housing through our program. Emphasizing individualized support, we prioritize the safety and success of potential residents. The duration of the candidate evaluation process varies depending on the individual. To guide this process effectively, we have established criteria aimed to identifying viable housing candidates.
- Must be between the age of 20-35 to apply. Our residents have the opportunity to maintain their housing through Autism Communities beyond the age of 35. Exceptions to the age requirement may be considered on a case-by-case basis
- Autism and/or other Intellectual Development Disability diagnosis
- New York State Resident
- Applying candidates must be self-directed through New York State OPWDD through the Developmental Disabilities Regional 5 Office (DDRO). Candidates outside of DDRO 5 interested in housing with Autism Communities must be willing to switch regional office
- Candidate must be established in self-direction for 6 months prior to applying
- Must have in place a Fiscal Intermediary, Self-Direction Broker and Care Manager
- Willing to consider support recommendations for independent living - such as: Direct Support Staff; Paid Neighbor; and Apartment Technology
- Candidates must not be considered medically frail or have significant behavioral and/or violent tendencies
- Candidates must undergo a background check at their own expense, approximately $250. This is the final step of the process before being approved for housing
We highly encourage anyone interested in housing through Autism Communities to become involved by joining Club AC. Membership offers opportunities to make friends, connect with other residents, and enjoy planned monthly social events and educational programs. Additionally, family members and friends can participate in Autism Communities by attending our fundraising events, becoming a committee member to assist us in our efforts or making a donation to our 25 by 25 Campaign.
Please note that involvement with Autism Communities through Club AC or activities mentioned does not guarantee housing.
Please note that involvement with Autism Communities through Club AC or activities mentioned does not guarantee housing.
How to Apply
We invite individuals who meet the criteria and are interested in our housing opportunities to submit an initial candidacy request form. Upon receiving, a member of our team will reach out within 48-72 hours to discuss our organization's model to ensure mutual understanding.
Thank you for your interest!
Thank you for your interest!