Staff are:

• Extensively trained in autism, utilizing the Bittersweet autism curriculum (www.bittersweetfarms.org)
• Use structured teaching methods like TEACCH and PECS (www.teacch.com) (www.pecs.com)
• Utilize a Gentle Teaching service model of mutual respect and interdependence between staff and participants … John McGee, Jean Vanier (www.gentleteaching.com)
• Are guided by individualized service plans, developed jointly with parents, family members and MRDD support coordinators

Organization will:

• Provide higher staffing ratios, with very competitive staff pay and benefits to maximize staff retention
• Be an autism training focal point for the community and a model for serving adults with autism
• Foster close cooperation between service provider, parents, county and Safe Haven Farms, Inc