Providing support across Washington state, our programs and community groups work to ensure that those with ASD have every opportunity to thrive and be productive. Through workshops, social and recreational activities, and civil legal aid and Family Navigation for children, adolescents and adults, parents, teachers, and other caregivers can learn how best to help those with ASD realize their full potential.
One of our featured programs Friendship Matters! opens more possibilities for your adolescent or young adult with ASD. In this weekly group they can improve their social leisure skills and learn to make friends under the guidance of professionals in social communication.
Meet our Friendship Matters! team:
Jake Sturm, Co-Facilitator: Jake is an experienced Program Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the individual and family services industry. Skilled in Nonprofit Organizations, Social Services, Customer Service, Case Management, and Strategic Planning. Strong program and project management professional with a team oriented approach. Jake has been leading social groups under the direction of a prominent area Neuropsychologist since 2003. He joined WAAA as the FM co-facilitator in 20015 and brings over 15 years experience working with adolescents and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Fanta Cora, Co-Facilitator: Fanta is currently a senior at the University of Washington pursuing a dual Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and Communications. She has worked with refugee/asylee seeking populations, Black & African American communities battling mental disorders and enjoys volunteering at ROOTS Young Adult Shelter. Fanta would like to gain experience working with the ASD community in hopes to spread awareness on underlining issues and implement policies in the future. She supports WAAA by helping families navigate health insurance benefits and access resources necessary for ASD and or other DD’s.
Hailey Walker - Co-Facilitator: As a sister to two siblings with exceptional needs, Hailey has a passion for improving outcomes for persons with disabilities of all ages. Her degree in Political Science, as well as a minor in NonProfit Administration has given her necessary tools to support the efforts of WAAA. Her diverse experience includes work in fundraising and development, as well as health and human services including mentorship to at risk underserved girls.
Hailey is saying farewell to the group on Monday August 27th, as she pursues her next adventure in life! We have been truly grateful having had Hailey's as a positive role model for the youth, adolescents and young adults in the group and look forward to her visits along with our amazing office mascot Mimi!
Group will not be meeting on September 3rd in observation of Labor Day. Starting September, the group will be meeting on Tuesdays 4:30-6:00 pm. This schedule adjustment will allow for participants to enjoy long holidays and not miss out on outings with their FM friends!
For those who are interested in learning more about Friendship Matters!, enrollment priority is given to those who have already participated in WAAA programs (I.e. Aspire Girls, Gift of Time). Our 3 step group enrollment involves:
- Submit an application (currently only accepting applications from former program participants)
- Make an intake appointment with Fanta Cora on either Tuesdays or Thursdays between 9:00 am - 5:00 pm after September 11th.
- Attend parent orientation (will be scheduled within 4 weeks of intake)
- Pay enrollment fee (first month, last month, and one month refundable deposit)
We look forward to hearing from you!