Help pave the way for a positive future. There are more than 5.4 million autistic adults in the U.S. Right now, there are more autistic adults who need services than there are qualified DSPs to support them. In fact, more than 482,000 adults with autism and intellectual disabilities are waitlisted for services that they need and deserve. As the need for DSPs and neurodivergent professionals continues to increase, it’s anticipated that there will be seven million vacant DSP job openings by 2029. Now is the time to help pave the way for a positive future—for work as a DSP and to ensure meaningful support and mentorship for an autistic adult.
The scholarship is available for rising freshman or sophomore undergraduate students in a 2-year or 4-year public college program, looking for financial support and current health and human service professionals going back to earn a degree at a 2-year or 4-year public college program, looking for financial support. This is an opportunity to receive generous aid in tuition assistance, annually and gain paid, hands-on experience working with autistic adults. Embark on a personally rewarding career path and receive mentorship from the NEXT for AUTISM team where you will directly impact the lives of autistic adults.