About IGNITE
The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) IGNITE programs are unique “peer-to-peer” community centers for young adults with high-functioning autism or Asperger’s Syndrome. Located in Davidson and Raleigh, they provide a place where autistic individuals can safely navigate the transition from high school to adult life.
Members spend time together learning and socializing with activities both at the center and out in the wider community. In partnership with members, IGNITE staff assists with planning activities which foster social, financial, educational, and employment independence and support members’ personal goals. Each year, members also participate in an overnight weekend retreat at the ASNC’s Camp Royall.
JUMPSTART
In the summer, IGNITE extends temporary membership to rising high school seniors for the JUMPSTART program. For 10 weeks, from June to August, JUMPSTART members participate in activities at IGNITE where they learn more about what to expect after high school and begin building skills for greater independence. “While looking ahead to graduation, some students on the spectrum can feel left behind as they see friends and peers planning for college and employment after high school,” says Alicia Lenhart, IGNITE Senior Program Director. “JUMPSTART helps those students see the possibilities in their own lives by providing learning opportunities and connecting them with a supportive, social, and inclusive community.”
JUMPSTART members spend 35 hours a week as part of the IGNITE community. They engage in group activities like movie night, yoga and meditation, hiking, creative writing, affinity clubs, and others. They have individual meetings with staff to set and review personal goals and participate in additional skill-building sessions like cooking, safety training, financial wellness, or how to deal with difficult situations.
Becoming a JUMPSTART member
Each of ASNC’s two JUMPSTART programs accept roughly five rising high school seniors every summer, many of which go on to become IGNITE members after graduation. Like IGNITE members, to join JUMPSTART students must be able to function in a group and have some beginning independence skills.
If you are interested in JUMPSTART for yourself or your child, please complete this Interest Form. If you have additional questions, please reach out to the IGNITE closest to you at:
- Davidson: IGNITE_Davidson@autismsociety-nc.org
- Raleigh: IGNITE_Raleigh@autismsociety-nc.org