Young Adult Program · Ages 18–22 · ACA Accredited
The Summer Camp for Young Adults with Autism
Ready for What's Next
Talisman's Young Adult program helps neurodivergent individuals ages 18–22 build real independence — through life skills, community, and the confidence that comes from a summer well lived.
Young Adult Program · Ages 18–22
A Summer Camp for Young Adults with Autism
That Prepares Them for Real Life
The transition from teenager to independent adult is hard for anyone. For young adults with autism or ADHD, it can feel impossible — especially without the right support and community around them.
Talisman's Young Adult program is a neurodivergent young adult summer program built specifically for ages 18–22. It combines the warmth and adventure of summer camp with a serious focus on the practical skills needed for supported independence.
- Peer community of neurodivergent young adults ages 18–22
- Life skills curriculum woven into every day
- Traditional camp activities alongside real-world field trips
- Professional staff trained in autism and ADHD support
The Curriculum
Life Skills Learned
the Way They Actually Stick
Independence isn't taught in a classroom. At Talisman, young adults practice real skills in real situations — every single day of the session.
Meal Planning & Cooking
Participants plan and prepare meals together — learning nutrition, budgeting, and the satisfaction of feeding yourself and others.
Household Management
Cleaning, organization, and shared-living skills practiced in real cabin environments with peers and coaching staff.
Financial Literacy
Budgeting, understanding costs, and making spending decisions — foundational skills for adult independence.
Transportation & Navigation
Getting from A to B independently. Field trips include real-world navigation challenges that build practical confidence.
Employment Readiness
Job skills, workplace communication, and interview preparation — tailored to the strengths neurodivergent young adults bring to any role.
Civic Participation
Community service projects and social outings that build awareness, belonging, and a sense of purpose in the wider world.
Program Options
Three Paths Forward
for Young Adults at Talisman
Depending on your experience level and goals, there are three program tracks available for young adults ages 15–22.
Young Adult
Our flagship program for neurodivergent individuals ages 18–22. Combines life skills instruction, community service, job readiness field trips, and traditional camp activities — all with peers who share your experience.
Ages 18–22 · Open Enrollment
Leadership
An invitation-only program for returning Talisman alumni ready to step into mentorship and leadership roles. Participants take on greater responsibility and serve as role models for younger campers.
Ages 15–22 · Alumni Only
Krewe
Talisman's highest-level alumni leadership track. Krewe members play an active role in shaping camp culture and supporting the broader community. A rare honor for long-term Talisman alumni.
Ages 16–22 · Alumni Only
"Many of our young adults have been coming to Talisman since they were 8 years old. The Leadership and Krewe programs exist because we believe in growing with our campers — not just through childhood, but into adulthood."
Why Talisman
Built for This Stage.
Not Adapted for It.
Most camps serve kids. Talisman serves neurodivergent people across every stage of life — including the critical transition into adulthood.
Peers Who Get It
Every person in the Young Adult program is neurodivergent. There's no need to mask, explain, or fit in. The community is built for exactly who you are.
Skills With Real Stakes
Life skills aren't practiced in worksheets — they're practiced in kitchens, on buses, and in job interviews. Real contexts make skills stick.
Staff Who Understand You
Every counselor and coach is trained in autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and the specific challenges of the transition-to-adulthood phase.
Adventure Included
This isn't a classroom program. Young adults still hike, kayak, climb, and experience all the best of a Talisman summer — independence skills are woven in, not bolted on.
A Path That Grows With You
Start in the Young Adult program, earn an invitation to Leadership, and ultimately Krewe. Talisman is a community you can grow within for years.
ACA Accredited Since 1980
Over 40 years of experience supporting neurodivergent youth and young adults. Talisman has been doing this longer than almost any other camp in the country.
Ready to Take the Next Step
Toward Independence?
Call us at (828) 697-6313 or apply online. We'll walk you through the Young Adult program and make sure it's the right fit.
Contact us to learn more