Happenings
Our Visit to Omar’s World of Comics & Hobbies
April 5, 2018
Omar Masood, a 22-year-old man with Down syndrome opened Omar’s World of Comics & Hobbies in March 2018. Every bit of the shop reflects its purpose: to be a safe space for members of the disabled...Read More
Lifestyles, Inc Celebration Luncheon Keynote Speakers
April 4, 2018
Keynote speakers, Molly Ivy (AbleTalks student) and Nancy Wells (Executive Director) Molly Ivy and I were proud to show our support of Lifestyles at the Celebration Luncheon 2018. What an honor!Read More
Autism Acceptance
April 2, 2018
Our class at AbleTalks has had frequent, in-depth discussions about autism awareness/appreciation/acceptance. The students are adults on the spectrum and I look to them for the expert “take̶...Read More
Our Goal
AbleTalks began with a simple dream …
TO EXTEND THE EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCES OF YOUNG ADULTS WITH AUTISM AND OTHER DISABILITIES SO THAT THEY CAN BECOME THE EXPERTS OF THEIR OWN LIVES
At AbleTalks, we believe that young adults with autism and other disabilities have the demonstrated desire and right to lead independently crafted and fulfilling careers. The drop-off point and subsequent state of disconnection faced are not only unnecessary but also easily avoidable.
That’s where we step in. We have our sights on expanding our AbleTalks model well beyond our Arkansas headquarters.
What We Do
Students
The AbleTalks program is tailored to young adults with autism and other disabilities. We aim to maximize independence for our students during this time of transition.
Social Benefits
Participating in the AbleTalks program provides our students with individualized support, intellectual freedom, and opportunities to interact with peers.
Family Impact
We work to connect with local families searching for the best next step for their self-motivated student who may need help making personal and career choices during times of transition.
Three-Tiered Program
Each Able student’s career goal is as unique as they are. Because of learning differences and capabilities, the path to a fulfilling career will often involve an alternative track. But thinking outside the box is comfortable for an Able student. We focus on possibilities. The Able team begins at the goal and works its way backwards, breaking down expected steps into achievable objectives.
- Independent Study
- Group Discussion & Goal-Setting
- Work/Life Measurement
Our Story
In 2015, Nancy Wells founded AbleTalks with the goal of establishing independent continued education for young adults with autism and other disabilities. Based in Fayetteville and currently servicing the Northwest Arkansas region, the pilot program of AbleTalks launched in June 2015.
At its core, the AbleTalks program is inspired by the day-to-day experiences, obstacles, and triumphs of the young adults in Nancy’s life, including her daughter Molly who is currently in the process of the very life transition that AbleTalks aims to support.
Here’s her story on the dinner conversation that started it all:
“It was a passionate discussion of how people with autism are sold short on their abilities and aspirations. They had goals that were more than mere employment. Though they recognized there were barriers, they desired careers that punctuate their talents and interests. And we believe that they, too, are entitled to such dreams.”