Working Toward the Future

This program offers young adults a summer experience focused on independent living skills and work readiness skills.

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About Easterseals Transitions Academy

Easterseals Northeast Indiana developed the Easterseals Transition Academy in 2022 to give teens and young adults with disabilities a sample of independent living. For several weeks during the summer, students live on a college campus in dorms with other students in the program. For more information, please contact Suzanne Vertigan at svertigan@esarc.org or at 260.456.4534 ext. 2337.

 

Students in the Easterseals Transitions Academy will live in Purdue University Fort Wayne campus housing, have a paid job, shop for their own groceries, learn to budget, learn about community transportation and so much more. Students will have access to support staff to help them navigate through the different skill sets they will learn while in the program.

The Easterseals Transitions Academy program focuses on:

  • Independent living skills such as budgeting, cooking, and hygiene. This is ideal for individuals who need to gain confidence before they enter the workforce in the future.
  • Financial literacy to help participants make informed and effective decisions with their finances.
  • Work readiness skills to help participants gain employment in their desired field in the future, as well as explore the application process, interview preparation, and self-advocacy.
  • Personal and community safety such as how to avoid harmful or dangerous situations, and what to do if you find yourself in one.

More about ETA:

  • This program is for current high school juniors and seniors with an IEP, 504 Plan, or other disability documentation.
  • Dorms will be provided at Purdue University Fort Wayne for an on-campus living experience for several weeks during the summer.
  • All staff are CPR-certified and trained in first aid and dispensing medication. Staff also are trained on each individual’s specific information

Summer 2025 Programming

Easterseals Transitions Academy (ETA)

Students gain employment and independent living skills in a 6-week inclusive program in Fort Wayne, with housing at Purdue Fort Wayne and paid work. This program is best for students seeking self-sufficiency and independence. Click on the ETA link above to apply. 

2025 Session: June 16 – July 25

Weekends Included

Closed July 3 – July 6

Service Locations

Easterseals Northeast Indiana - Fort Wayne

For more information about enrolling in services, please contact us at agencyintakes@esarc.org or 260.456.4534 

Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

4919 Coldwater Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46825

260.456.4534

Connect with Us

We look forward to helping you create a support plan with the services that meet your unique needs.

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