I saw this post on social media yesterday, and ran it on X asking, "What if we had something like this for autism?" A very smart, very dear friend told me, "We do!" Her daughter worked for a L'Arche community home in Maryland after college. L’Arche USA works on behalf of L’Arche communities in the U.S. to advance the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through inclusive leadership, engagement, and bringing the power of community to life, changing society so people living with intellectual disabilities can thrive.

I'm not usually pessimistic, but could we ever hope for a home where lively, happy-to-be-there volunteers from all walks of life become a vibrant part of our adult children's lives?  I wouldn't mind people coming in and out of my daughters' lives if they were there from their hearts, not trudging in to the only job they can get. I'd trade staff consistency for a flow of warm, loving people. I feel like individuals with autism (and behaviors) have been left behind, left out and cast aside in so many ways.  We have an empty convent in my town, and I often look at it and see a safe, congregate care facility that could house adults with autism. Of course, congregate care is verboten for many. But why? We have Alzheimer's facilities. Community based living is not the only option and often unrealistic for adults with profound autism.

There is no L'Arche here in Connecticut, there is one on Long Island and one on the North Shore of Massachusetts. If you know anything about L'Arche, chime in. Adult housing is a mountain of worry. Parents do not live forever. We need ideas and then action. Put on your thinking caps.