The Autism Society of America, through its affiliate network, has been connecting and empowering everyone in the Autism community with the support and resources they need, when they need it… since 1965. Over the years the Society has had great success in raising awareness, fostering acceptance, and promoting inclusion for people on the Autism spectrum. We at UCP join their efforts to provide and promote supports across the spectrum and throughout the life span for individuals with Autism and their families.

One such individual is Freda a participant in UCP’s Home & Community (H&C) services. Freda, 32, is all about expanding her horizons and making the most of her everyday life.

H&C Senior Specialist, Emilee G., works with Freda on her personal goals, most of which are related to increasing her independence, such as budgeting, healthier food choices, and volunteering in the community.  Freda especially enjoys donating her time to Little Paws in Hummelstown where she helps the puppies with their socialization skills.

The highlight of Freda’s week is her time spent working at Anna Rose Bakery in downtown Harrisburg. She is enamored by it all: the colors, the smells, the flavors…  and of course, the baked goods. Freda says Anna Rose is her dream job come true!

Probably most important to Freda is the fact that her time in UCP’s Home and Community services allows her to simply “be Freda.” She often immerses herself in a wide variety of interests that includes collecting Pokemon cards, listening to Stevie Nicks, visiting 2nd and Charles bookstore and taking walks on the Hummel Nature Trail. Freda also has a competitive side and enjoys both game days at the Capital City Mall food court, as well as participating in special Olympics bowling.  In addition to competing with her other friends from UCP she also enjoys spending time with them visiting the PA Farm Show or just going for a dragon fruit drink at Starbucks.