Building a Strong Support Network for Your Young Adult
Whether your young adult has mild autism or a severe intellectual disability, a support network is essential. It helps them live with more independence, confidence, and joy — and gives you peace of mind, too.
What Is a Support Network?
A support network is a group of people who help your young adult succeed in life. These are trusted individuals who:
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Understand your child’s needs
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Respect their voice and choices
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Offer help in specific areas (like decision-making, transportation, or emotional support)

Types of People to Include in the Network
Here are examples of who might be part of the team:
Family & Friends
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Parents, siblings, cousins, grandparents
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Close friends or neighbors
Professionals
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Teachers, aides, job coaches
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Therapists (speech, occupational, behavioral)
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Support coordinators or case managers
Health & Wellness
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Doctors, dentists, mental health providers
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Nutritionists or physical therapists
Community Support
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Employers or coworkers
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Church or faith-based mentors
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Club leaders (gaming, music, art, sports)
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Local volunteers or students studying special education
Out-of-the-Box Thinkers
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Baristas, librarians, or grocery store clerks who know your child by name and routine
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A tech-savvy teen who can teach social media safety
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Retired neighbor who enjoys regular check-ins
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Peer mentors from community centers
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Online friends (with supervision) who share common interests


What to Look for in a Support Person
✔️ Trustworthy — You feel safe leaving your child with them
✔️ Patient — They understand that learning and growth take time
✔️ Consistent — They show up and follow through
✔️ Respectful — They treat your child with dignity
✔️ Communicator — They share updates and listen to your feedback
✔️ Flexible — They can adapt as your child’s needs change
Most Important Thing to Keep in Mind:
It’s not about finding “perfect” people — it’s about building a dependable team that believes in your child’s potential.
Your child’s needs will change over time. So will the network. That’s okay! What matters is creating a safe, supportive environment that helps them grow in confidence and independence.
Final Tips:
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Start small — even 2–3 reliable people can make a big difference
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Ask people directly: “Would you be willing to be part of our support team?”
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Keep communication open (group texts, check-ins, shared calendars)
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Use visual charts or binders for clarity, especially for complex needs
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Review the team regularly and adjust as needed
Helpful Resources
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Local Parent Resource Centers and advocacy organizations
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PA Family Network