College Connect is an evidence‑informed support program designed specifically for emerging adults with developmental disabilities who are navigating college, employment, and increasing independence. We help students build the executive functioning, social‑emotional, and self‑management skills needed for academic success, meaningful relationships, and long‑term adult independence. Our program was developed by college professors, educational psychologists, and clinical professionals in response to the growing need for specialized support after high school.

College Connect is a skills-building, action-oriented program.
We do not complete tasks for students we coach them in developing the skills to manage responsibilities themselves.

Our team partners with students, campus services, and the community to help them:
• Strengthen academic systems
• Build social relationships
• Increase independence
• Develop real-world self-management skills

Growth happens through guided practice, structure, and support not passive services.

College Connect supports students across all areas of the college and early employment experience.

Services may include:
• Individual coaching
• Executive functioning support
• Social-emotional skill development
• Academic and educational strategy coaching
• Campus-based observations
• Community-based skill building
• Small group opportunities
• Family communication and coordination

These skills translate directly into long-term educational, employment, and life success.

College systems are very different from high school. Colleges are not required to proactively provide support, and services are typically limited (e.g., testing accommodations or note‑taking assistance). Students must initiate and manage most supports independently. College Connect helps students build the skills needed to navigate these systems, communicate effectively, and follow through without duplicating services already offered by the campus.

Campus services provide important accommodations, but they are not designed to offer ongoing, individualized coaching.

College Connect provides:
• Daily and weekly structure
• Executive functioning support
• Real-world skill practice
• Accountability and follow-through
• Integrated support across academics, employment, and independent living

We complement campus services we don’t replace them.

No. While we may support academic strategy and organization, College Connect is not traditional tutoring. We focus on the underlying executive functioning and self‑management skills that influence performance across all courses and life areas.

No. College Connect is not therapy and does not replace mental health treatment. We provide coaching, structure, and skill‑building that support independence, confidence, and daily functioning. Many students work with both a therapist and College Connect the two services complement each other.

Emerging adults who may struggle with:
• Organization and follow-through
• Academic demands
• Social communication
• Independent living skills
• Employment readiness
• Self-advocacy

We support individuals connected with:
• North Los Angeles County Regional Center
• San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center
• Inland Regional Center
• Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center

College Connect services are funded through Regional Centers. There is no direct cost to families or colleges when services are approved. We guide families through the entire process.

Starting something new can feel overwhelming we guide families through each step.
• Meet with a specialist to discuss goals, strengths, concerns, and future plans
• We develop a student profile and submit it for Regional Center review
• After approval, students are introduced to their coach
• A personalized support schedule is developed
• Students begin services and may also meet peers in the program

Feeling nervous at the beginning is normal it often signals growth and new independence.

We have supported students in:
• Successfully managing college coursework
• Transferring to four-year universities
• Earning certificates and degrees
• Building lasting friendships
• Developing independent living skills
• Obtaining driver’s licenses
• Gaining employment in meaningful fields
• Discovering new interests and goals

Students often leave more confident, capable, and prepared for adult life.

Our goal is to help students develop independence and self‑advocacy. Students are encouraged and supported in initiating and attending meetings themselves, with coaching before and after. In some cases, staff presence may be appropriate as students build these skills. Staff attend as support, not as advocates and do not participate in grade disputes or administrative conflicts.

Yes. Social growth is a key part of emerging adulthood. College Connect offers opportunities for connection through peer interaction, group experiences, and shared activities. We believe learning and personal growth happen through relationships as well as skill‑building.

Families can contact us to schedule an initial consultation to discuss goals, fit, and next steps.

Schedule a Consultation