The Transitions program helps people with intellectual disabilities

Growing up, Jordan Sprague was always told that his future was uncertain and his goals were unachievable.

“When I was a kid, I wasn’t really admired for who I was,” Sprague said.

But Sprague never let that stop him from pursuing his path. In fact, he managed to find his own way.

“I look back and look forward to all the things that I have, that have been opened up to me in life and all the things that I’ve accomplished and I’m proud of, and I’m proud of what people can accomplish when they put their minds to it,” Sprague said.

Sprague has a learning disability. He says the obstacles he faced have only made him stronger as an advocate for others facing similar challenges.

“My dad always taught me to be kind and to show kindness to those who don’t show kindness and to return it with love,” Sprague said.

Sprague attributes much of her confidence and preparedness for the world to the Transitions program, an initiative aimed at supporting students with intellectual disabilities.

“Transitions is a program for young adults aged 17 to 27 with autism or other learning disabilities who are looking for support for the next stage of their lives: entering college, the workforce, or living alone away from family for the first time,” said Dr. Priya Winston, Director of Programs and Clinical Support at Transitions.

Winston says the program is an effective step in breaking the stigma associated with neurodivergent people.

“I think there’s a lot of work that needs to be done in our society and in our world to get people to think differently about neurodiversity and people whose mental functioning is different than what society considers normal,” Winston said. “So I think it’s really important to talk about it and share stories here, so that people know what’s possible for people with autism, learning disabilities, or other conditions.”

For Sprague, the Transitions program played a critical role in preparing him for bigger and better opportunities, something he was always told wouldn’t happen.

“Never give up,” Sprague said. “Always think about your goals and your dreams and go after them. And if you fail, you fail. Get up and succeed. The most successful people have failed in life and you can do anything you want.”