Adult Services
Learning doesn’t end after high school. If you are an adult on the spectrum, you can continue your journey to independence at the Kinney Center. From obtaining meaningful employment, learning to cook dinner or taking whatever next step is right for you, we offer programming to help you achieve your personal goals while developing social connections and having fun along the way.
Life and Social Skills Programs
If you are looking for a weekly way to stay connected while making progress toward your goals, the Kinney Center’s evening Life and Social Skills program could be a great fit. Meeting two-hours per week each session is split between a social and life skills lesson, with dinner served during Life Skills lessons and light refreshments served during Social Skills lessons.
Adult Social Skills
Thursdays | 6-8 PM | Ages 21+
September 18-November 20
Cost: $1000
- Director: Colleen Kelly, BCBA
- Phone: 610-660-2180
- Email: ckelly1@sju.edu
Vocational Skills
Our evening vocational skills program is designed to support teens and young adults in building essential work-readiness in a structured, supportive environment. Participants engage in hands-on activities that promote job exploration, communication, time management, and teamwork. Whether preparing for part-time employment or building a foundation for future career success, this program offers personalized instruction tailored to each individual's goals and abilities.
Vocational Skills
Tuesdays | 6-7:30 PM | Ages 15+
September 16-December 2 (No sessions on October 14 or November 11)
Cost: $1000
- Director: Alyssa Hernandez, BCBA
- Phone: 610-660-2169
- Email: ahernand@sju.edu
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The Kinney Center offers programming for all ages and ability levels. Due to our training model, individuals may not be accommodated if intensive behavioral support is required. This includes but is not limited to severe aggressive behaviors or intensive self-injury. If you are unsure if your child will qualify, it is recommended to submit their most recent behavior intervention plan and up to date behavioral data for review. Families may be requested to come in for an observational visit per behavioral review.
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The Kinney Center’s unique staffing model is inspired by our two-fold mission to serve individuals affected by autism while training students studying to work in the field. Most programs are staffed 1-to-1 by undergraduate students, known as Kinney SCHOLARS. SCHOLARS receive two weeks of intensive training upon acceptance into their role, have all relevant clearances from the state, and are both CPR and CPI certified. In addition, Graduate Assistants within related fields manage the team of SCHOLARS, meeting on a weekly basis to discuss skill progress and suggested teaching activities. Ultimately the program is overseen by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) from our full time staff. The BCBA’s roles include training and supervising SCHOLARS in skill teaching procedures and behavioral interventions. The program manager is available to complete functional behavior assessments and behavior intervention plans for students that present behavioral concerns during the program.
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Adult Social Skills and Vocational Skills are held in the Kinney Center, which is located in Connelly Hall, Room 250 (#37 on the Campus Map). Parking is available next to Merion Hall off of Latches Lane (near #42 on the Campus Map) & Upper Duperreault Lot off of Latches Lane (near #43 on the Campus Map).
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In the case of inclement weather that causes program cancellation, sessions will not be rescheduled due to time and space restrictions. Outdoor programs have an alternative indoor space available if needed. Make sure to update your profile with a valid email and cell phone number to ensure you receive up to the minute information.
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Due to the educational component of the Kinney Center, at various times, students enrolled in the autism major, minor or certificate program will be observing programs as part of their coursework.
I think I am handling work a little more confidently than I once did."
![Maureen Almeida]()
Maureen Almeida
