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Options for College Success
college for learning disabled students
Your Future is Full of Options...
820 Davis St., Suite 455
Evanston, IL 60201

Phone: 847-425-4797
Fax: 847-425-4798

cjanderson@optionsforcollegesuccess.org

info@optionsforcollegesuccess.org

www.optionsforcollegesuccess.org


Options for College Success Program Info

OPTIONS FOR COLLEGE SUCCESS is a nonprofit organization located in Evanston, IL,whose purpose is to encourage learning-challenged post secondary students to develop the skills, the confidence, and the courage necessary to transition into living independently and working productively. We offer both Residential and non-Residential services. The program was established in 2009, and serves students between 18 - 30.

ABOUT OUR STUDENTS:
Our students are young adults who face learning challenges that often make it difficult to succeed. As the student approaches high school completion, the student and the family need to make new choices to determine a successful future for the young adult. The student need not accept their diploma to attend our program.

WE ACCEPT STUDENTS WITH THE FOLLOWING:

  • Asperger's
  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • ADD/ADHD
  • Learning Disabilities such as ADD/ADHD, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Dyslexia, Auditory and Visual Processing
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Non-verbal learning disorders (NVLD)
  • Reading comprehension disorders
  • Spatial disorders
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Social and maturational issues
  • Developmental delays
  • Epilepsy
  • Hearing impairment
  • Visual impairment
  • Fragile X
  • Executive function disorder
  • Anxiety
  • OCD
  • And more...

We offer a comprehensive program with the goal of the individual being able to reach independence in the following areas:

  • career choices / Academic
  • independent living skills
  • financial management
  • social skills

Each student's abilities and goals are carefully reviewed by the staff. An individualized goals plan is formulated in conjunction with the parents, student and staff. This plan is reviewed on a regular basis, and parents are updated and advised on their students’ progress.

Every student receives individual attention and one on one instruction and support in pursuing an academic track and or an internship/vocational track or a combination of both. We keep careful record of daily progress and are always ready to adjust services to meet the needs of each student. For those on an academic track we provide additional tutoring or specific techniques as needed or requested.

We keep a careful record of daily progress and are always ready to adjust services to meet the needs of each student. This may include additional tutoring sessions, specific tutoring techniques, and individualized organizational skills. Each student meets with an advisor on a weekly basis. They review the student's progress in each of the areas, and student needs and wants are addressed.

Although we have rolling admissions, we offer a limited enrollment so that we can continue to offer excellent services to each of our students. If we cannot offer a student immediate entrance, the individual will be placed on a waiting list until there is space available.

Academic
The individualized goal plan is based on the individual interests and abilities of the student. We assist the student with the admissions process, and enrollment in the academic program of their choice. We help in course selection and registration. We also assist in applying for student accommodations. Furthermore, we help the student to communicate with their professors or supervisors as needed and work with the student to develop the skills needed to advocate for himself.

Internship/Vocational

Students select a field of interest and we assist in finding a hands on training situation. We support the student as he refines those skills needed in the workplace including resume building, interviewing skills and improving skills toward advancement.

INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS
We work with each student in their apartment to learn organizational skills.

  • Learn apartment safety
  • Keep apartment clean and orderly
  • Do laundry
  • Plan healthy meals and menus
  • Create shopping lists
  • Prepare nutritious meals
  • Navigate transportation

FINANCE MANAGEMENT
We teach the young adult how to live on a budget. This includes purchasing groceries and allocating discretionary funds. The student also learns how to pay bills online and the importance of a good credit rating. In addition, the student learns about security and safety on the internet.

SOCIAL SKILLS
We offer the students individual meetings with the staff therapist as well as group sessions. Regular roommate meeting are also scheduled. The psychologist is always available to help the student with learning and social issues with adults and their peers. We also plan social activities and encourage the students to participate. Social experiences are designed to help our students become well rounded and enjoy age appropriate experiences.

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