Eligibility Criteria

Wayfinders is a 2-year non-degree independent living certificate program for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Wayfinders participants increase their independence by taking classes at Fresno State through Open University, living in student apartments, and participating in work experience internships both on and off-campus.

Applications should be submitted only for an individual who:

• Is 18-28 years old
• Has a diagnosed intellectual and/or developmental disability
• Will have completed high school with a diploma or certificate of completion prior to August 1
• Has a strong desire to live independently after completion of Wayfinders and parents/guardians who support their progress toward independence
• Is comfortable with a dynamic schedule and has intrinsic motivation to participate in all components of Wayfinders programming (Residential, Vocation, University Inclusion, Activities, Transition, Case Management)
• Is able to complete their daily needs (bathing, dressing, feeding,) access their physical environment, and safely function with minimal to no supervision
• Is able to accurately and independently manage medications
• Is able to communicate needs effectively
• Has appropriate social behavior including getting along with peers, following rules, and accepting supervision
• Is currently working, volunteering, or enrolled in high school, community college, or a training program
• Has alternate residence for holiday breaks
• Is free of any communicable diseases that are transmissible by casual contact, has all immunizations up to date, and has health insurance coverage

Wayfinders is not appropriate for all individuals.

Wayfinders is not appropriate for individuals who have a psychiatric and/or emotional disturbance that impacts behavior, have serious medical conditions that require monitoring or intervention, and/or require 24-hour supervision. Wayfinders does not provide 24/7 on-site support.

Wayfinders prioritizes participant safety and respect. Our philosophy and approach allow participants to make decisions that affect all aspects of life and we promote the dignity of risk and the right to failure; as such enhancing the participant's experience while at Wayfinders.