Richmond House provides residential living for adults with ASD

The Richmond House provides residential living for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who can live independently with support.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental disabilities that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges.

The Richmond House, a private, non-profit organization opened its doors in 2003. It was built by a group of parents of young adults with special needs, along with the help of their very generous community supports. Its mission is to empower teens and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder to determine, and achieve, meaningful and productive lives in the community.

They provide peer support and coaching on decision-making, and personal responsibility, which encourages development of independence and success in work settings, both paid and volunteer, and in postsecondary education.

Ed Wren, an eight year resident, provided this Richmond Disability Examiner a tour of the facilities. His social, communication and behavioral skills were impressive as he shared the history of the Richmond House.  In addition to the title of “tour guide,” Wren also volunteers at St. Mary’s and works at Ruby Tuesday. Other residents work and attend college.

The Richmond House established the Social Networking Autism Program (SNAP Club) in 2008. The SNAP Club is an outreach program for teens and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders.  The Club serves high functioning individuals with ASD or Asperger’s Syndrome in middle school, high school and young adults to age 25.

SNAP Club offers structured opportunities for social enjoyment which assists participants to slowly and assuredly develop friendships. They achieve greater social tolerance of other individuals and environments through increased success in managing social challenges.

Although their residents have Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnoses, with structure and support, the residents of Richmond House live without the “labels.” In fact their residents develop long lasting friendships, enjoy “dinner parties,” take day trips, stay up talking late into the night, play pool, watch TV, go to the library, buy clothes, take a walk, shop for groceries, take the bus, play cards, try new recipes, go to a movie...all the typical fun stuff that happens in a house full of adults.

Leslie Hundley, Executive Director, “We are a program to help high-functioning individuals with Autism or Asperger's accomplish one of the most difficult things in their lives - independent living.  It may take may years to reach that goal, but we are here, we are family and we (Richmond House) will help our residents to accomplish all goals, no matter how big or small in order to accomplish their dream.”

For opportunities to volunteer, serve on the board, make a gift, or submit an application for residence, contact:

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