I LOVE this nonprofit because it has changed my life and my son’s for the better and made a world of difference for us!! I never realized how much I enabled my autistic son at home having him living with me! I always thought, “Ryan can’t do that, he doesn’t know what that means, he can’t understand that” among many other things. But the day we met the founders at our monthly autism meeting, my son always chose to sit near them at every meeting and talk with them. Eventually, I realized Ryan really needed to try becoming more independent so I reached out and inquired about how it worked at Southwind Fields. They helped my son get his current job and paired him with a great roommate who is at his same level and they hit it off immediately! I have seen such a difference in Ryan’s conversations, his confidence, his knowledge, his friends he actually hangs out with now, and watched him quickly turn into the independent young man I truly hoped he would be! This was when I realized Ryan was actually happy now and was truly enjoying a fulfilling life! This nonprofit has helped him with his finances, paying bills/rent on time, contacting maintenance when required, learning to ride the bus and how the transportation system works! I cannot say enough about everyone there and the support and care they have for all of these “locals”. The staff is incredible and very devoted to these individuals on a level you cannot imagine! I would highly recommend this nonprofit if you are wanting to grow your loved one into becoming a truly independent adult and developing friendships that will last a lifetime!!
My son has been living ‘semi-independently’ for almost a year now with Southwind Fields. Our family was very concerned with the limited options for the higher functioning adults with special needs. Group homes seemed too much and other options were extremely expensive. During a difficult time we found Southwind Fields and have been involved in many ways with their program. We are quite thankful this is an option that not only is close to our family, but also affordable. Our son is enjoying living on his own, but is also thankful to have any type of help a call away. He is enjoying the community feeling that the program provides. Instant friends, instant support and guidance.
My son started at Providence place 10 years ago. When he outgrew everything they had to offer, we got lucky to have the founders bring my son over to Southwind fields. They have been the absolute best! They go above and beyond to teach my son to learn, to help himself! He can ask them for guidance with most life skills or needs.