Whether you are newly diagnosed, a seasoned advocate, a caregiver, or a young adult building independence — this page is a starting point for the support you need.
Navigating the world of autism services, government programs, and transition planning can feel overwhelming. StarCastle Foundation has compiled this guide to help individuals on the spectrum, their families, and caregivers find the most important resources available in California. These are starting points — our team is always happy to help you find more.
California's Regional Centers are the primary gateway to services and support for individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism. They offer case management, service referrals, and funding for a wide range of programs — at no cost to eligible individuals and families.
To get started, contact the Regional Center in your area to request an intake assessment. An early diagnosis and early enrollment can make a significant difference in outcomes.
Find Your Regional Center →In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) provides funding to help individuals with disabilities receive personal care at home, supporting independence and safe living.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program providing monthly payments to individuals with limited income who have a qualifying disability. Many individuals on the autism spectrum are eligible.
Learn About IHSS →When an individual with autism turns 18, parents no longer have automatic legal authority over their medical or financial decisions. A conservatorship is one legal tool families can use — but alternatives like supported decision-making may be a more appropriate and empowering option for many autistic adults.
We strongly recommend consulting with a special needs attorney to understand all available options and choose what is right for your family member.
CA Courts Conservatorship Guide →A Special Needs Trust (SNT) allows families to set aside funds for a loved one with autism without affecting their eligibility for government benefits like SSI or Medi-Cal. This is an important estate planning tool for families at any income level.
SNTs can be established by parents, grandparents, or the court. Work with a qualified special needs attorney or financial planner to set one up correctly.
What Is a Special Needs Trust? →Access Services provides shared-ride public transportation to individuals with disabilities who are unable to use fixed-route bus or rail systems in Los Angeles County.
Individuals must apply and complete an eligibility process. Once enrolled, the service covers most areas within LA County and trips must be scheduled in advance.
Access Services LA →Beyond external resources, StarCastle Foundation hosts Family Support Circles — monthly gatherings where parents, caregivers, and families can share experiences, ask questions, and support one another in a safe, welcoming environment.
You don't have to figure this out alone. Our community is built on shared experience, and we are here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Connect with Our Community →Whether you are a teenager preparing for the future, a young adult building independence, or an adult seeking community and services — these resources are for you.
The transition from school to adult life is one of the most important and challenging periods on the autism journey. California's Individualized Education Program (IEP) must include a transition plan starting at age 16 (and often earlier).
Key areas of transition planning include post-secondary education, vocational training, employment, independent living, and community participation. StarCastle Foundation's workshops help teens and young adults navigate this process.
California Transition Services Guide →Finding meaningful employment is possible for individuals on the autism spectrum with the right support. California's Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) provides vocational rehabilitation services including job training, placement support, and workplace accommodations at no cost to eligible individuals.
Employers are increasingly recognizing the unique strengths autistic employees bring to the workplace. Our workshops connect young adults with employment resources and opportunities.
California Department of Rehabilitation →For adults on the spectrum who want to live independently or semi-independently, California offers a range of supported living services through the Regional Center system. These services provide personal support, life skills training, and help navigating daily activities.
Independent living is not a one-size-fits-all goal — the level of support is personalized. Talk to your Regional Center case manager about your options.
Supported Living Services →Self-advocacy — understanding your rights, communicating your needs, and speaking up for yourself — is a powerful skill for autistic individuals of all ages. The Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) is an excellent resource created by and for autistic people.
StarCastle Foundation also hosts workshops and panels featuring self-advocates sharing their own experiences navigating employment, education, and community life.
Autistic Self Advocacy Network →Social connection is important for everyone — and for many autistic individuals, finding the right community can be transformative. StarCastle Foundation's Young Adults Social Nights and community events are designed to provide a safe, welcoming space for connection.
Online communities, autism-specific social groups, and neurodiversity-affirming spaces are growing — reach out to us and we can help connect you with communities that fit your interests.
Find Community with Us →Autistic individuals experience higher rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout than the general population. Accessing affirming, neurodiversity-competent mental health support is critical.
Look for therapists and counselors who are trained in autism and who take a neurodiversity-affirming approach. Regional Centers can often provide referrals to mental health services for eligible individuals.
Autism & Mental Health →You can get involved by attending one of our events, volunteering, donating, or simply reaching out via our Contact page. We'd love to connect with you and find the best way for you to be part of our community.
StarCastle Foundation serves individuals on the autism spectrum across all ages — from children and youth, to teenagers navigating transition, to young adults and adults. We also support families and caregivers at every stage of the journey.
Yes. We design all of our community events with sensory considerations in mind — including quiet zones, reduced stimulation options, and accommodations for participants with sensory sensitivities. Our goal is for every person to feel welcome and comfortable at our events.
Many of our community events are free or low-cost, made possible by donations and sponsors. Some fundraising events like our Gala may have ticket costs. We are committed to making our community gatherings as accessible as possible — contact us if cost is a barrier.
We recommend starting with neurodiversity-affirming resources and perspectives from the autistic community itself. The Autistic Self Advocacy Network (autisticadvocacy.org) is an excellent starting point, along with resources from your Regional Center and our own upcoming workshops.
Our team is here to help connect you with the services and support you need. Reach out — we're always happy to listen and help.
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