Charleston Women Spring 2021

www. Char l es tonWomen . com | www. Char l es tonWomenPodcas t . com | www. ReadCW. com CW BY FAY M. BOUDE T Navigating Autism M any parents and caregivers of children are familiar with the stress of planning and preparing for the future and their children’s transition into adulthood. Linda J. Walder was no exception. As a mother of a child diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the early 1990s, Walder’s activist spirit led her to pursue the best educational opportunities for her son Danny. In an effort to further maximize lifelong opportunities available to him, Walder began to research what resources would be available when he aged out of the education system — and how he could experience a full, active life once he reached adulthood. She was dismayed to learn that while Danny was assured excellent educational programs during his school-age years, after age 21, throughout the United States, there were limited programs and support systems in place for autistic adults. When Danny unexpectedly passed away at age 9, Walder decided to turn her grief into a constructive outlet and poured her heart into developing much-needed, community-based programs and support systems for adults with autism. In 2002, she founded The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation for Adult Autism (DJFF) in honor and memory of Danny. Unique in its trailblazing mission and focused exclusively on adult autism, the foundation is completely staffed by volunteers so every donation goes directly to its efforts on behalf of autistic adults. Initially, DJFF focused on developing innovative signature programs with community service providers, creating opportunities for autistic adults across the nation to live, work and recreate. Signature program models included vocational and paid employment; life skills training to enhance independent and residential living; work and recreational experiences The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation for Adult Autism L i nda J . Wa l der Photos prov i ded by L i nda J . Wa l de r.