Small Group Support
“When we are volunteering, I like that I have a chance to learn a new skill. When Launch is over, I want to live independently.”
- Robert
Overview
The Small Group program is designed for individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities who are 18+, thrive in a curriculum-based small-group setting, and are ready to work toward greater independence. The daytime program is offered twice a week and helps participants identify career paths aligned with their interests and skills while building confidence, resilience, and essential life skills.
Serving as a bridge to post-secondary education or transitional programs, the Small Group program focuses on independent living and career readiness through structured lessons and hands-on learning. The curriculum includes social relationships, organizational skills, healthy living, financial management, and vocational experience. Participants gain practical work experience through volunteer opportunities and develop the foundational skills needed to transition successfully from the family home to more independent living arrangements when the time is right.
Eligibility & Program Fit
The Small Group program is designed for individuals who are seeking to prepare for independent living and secure competitive employment in the near future. The program serves as a stepping stone to 29 Acres Transition Academy, post-secondary opportunities, or other similar transitional programs.
Program Highlights
Small Group Learning
Participants engage in small group instruction with a 1:4 staff-to-participant ratio. Weekly 2-3 hour classes use a modified version of our Transition Academy curriculum to build essential skills in a supportive environment.
Career Readiness
Our Director of Vocational Services conducts an initial vocational assessment to guide participants in job exploration, pre-vocational skill development, and opportunities that prepare them for future employment. Participants volunteer twice a week.
Empowering Personal Growth
The program helps individuals build meaningful friendships and workplace relationships by applying classroom lessons in real-world community experiences.
Independent Living
Participants master essential life skills such as budgeting, meal planning, and household tasks, applying these skills in both the community and their home.
Responsibility & Skill Generalization
Lessons and community skills are reinforced at home with weekly “homework” assignments, such as preparing a meal, doing laundry, or completing household chores, to ensure skills transfer to daily life.
Small Group Curriculum
Participants engage in a series of courses designed to build self-awareness, vocational skills, health and wellness, financial literacy, and overall independent living. Group learning takes place at our Dallas location and is led by our experienced Dallas Life Coaches.
Daily Schedule Example
9:00-9:30
Arrival and group discussion of current events locally and around the world.
9:30-10:30
Small group classroom time.
10:00-12:00
Discuss lunch, create a grocery list, shop for necessary ingredients followed by a group cooking class. Eat and clean up.
12:00-3:00
Volunteer at the Frisco Library to practice working as a team and to gain work experience.
3:00-4:00
Return to the hub to debrief the day’s experience. Participate in social group communication games.
4:00-5:00
Journal writing and “homework” assignment instructions.
5:00
Dismissal
The Vocational Assessment
Every Launch 29 participant completes a vocational assessment at the start of the program. Led by our Director of Vocational Services, the assessment identifies each participant’s strengths, interests, and career goals to create a personalized vocational plan. Based on the results, students will receive guidance for job placement or pre-vocational skill-building opportunities. Evaluations are updated every six months through observations and self-assessments to track progress and refine career plans.
Other Options
Clients who are unable to participate in the Small Group Program can join an individualized program with customized support services.
Common Questions
What is the Small Group attendance schedule?
The Small Group program is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays each week. Participants also have the option to attend our Day Program on other weekdays through the small group track for additional skill-building and support.
What are the requirements to join the Small Group program?
Participants must be able to engage successfully in a small group classroom setting for 1–2 hours and participate in volunteer or community-based activities for 2–4 hours. Individuals must be able to maintain safe behaviors and not engage in behaviors that could pose a safety risk to themselves or others, such as physical aggression, elopement, or self-injurious behavior.
Does my loved one need a certain IQ to join the Small Group program?
No, there is no specific IQ requirement. However, participants should have at least a 5th-grade reading level and demonstrate a willingness to build independence and develop skills needed for post-secondary education, employment, or more independent living.
Are there other options if the Small Group program isn’t a good fit but I still want services?
Yes. They can participate in a small group and create a more customized program for them.