Age 21: Adult Services Begin

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Turning 21 is an important time for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities because the services and supports they receive can change. Having a clear, person-centered  transition plan helps you understand your choices and take control of your life. Planning early makes it easier to handle changes in health care, housing, jobs, and being part of the community.

The most important thing is to be active in planning your own future. By starting early, learning new skills, and making a clear plan, turning 21 doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful. Instead, it can be a positive milestone where you feel ready to make choices and take control of your life.

 Higher Education

In New Jersey, 21-year-olds with intellectual or developmental disabilities can still go to college, and there are special programs that help them learn job skills, make friends, and be more independent. College is different from high school because students must ask for their own accommodations instead of getting an IEP. Schools have Disability Services offices that can give support, but students need to speak up and request it. New Jersey also has transition programs that teach life and work skills to help young adults get ready for college or a job. The most important thing to know is that higher education is possible, and support is available if you ask for it.

SPAN - Education after High School

The ARC - College programs for students with I/DD and Scholarship Opportunities

Find more information about HIGHER EDUCATION here!

  Employment 

In New Jersey, adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have many options for work when they turn 21. You can get help finding a job, learning job skills, and getting support at work through programs like Vocational Rehabilitation (DVRS) and the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). These programs can help you explore different careers, practice interviewing, and get a job coach if you need one. You have the right to work in the community, earn money, and be treated fairly. The most important thing is to know that you can work, you can get support, and you can choose a job that matches your interests and strengths.

NJ Division of Vocation Rehabilitation Services (DVRS)

Overview Pre-Employment Transition Services in NJ

  Community Living

When you turn 21 in New Jersey, you can choose how and where you want to live in your community. Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have the right to live in safe, supported places like group homes, supervised apartments, or even their family home if that works best. The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) can help pay for services such as staff support, transportation, and help with daily living skills. You can also get support to join community activities, make friends, and be more independent. The most important thing to know is that you have choices, and there are programs to help you live a full, active life in the community.

DDD - Quick Guide for Families Supports and Community Care Program 

 For finding resources to help choose a living situation that feels safe, comfortable, and the right fit for you:

• Check with DDD (Division of Developmental Disabilities) to see what services you qualify for.
• Get help from local resources like The ARC or CAU which support people in their communities.
• Get help from AVIDD which offers structured places to live with job support. 
• Attend events from Boggs Center or Autism NJ to learn new skills and understand your rights.