Meristem prepares young adults who are on the autism spectrum or neurodiverse to build a strong sense of self, develop enhanced social capacity and create lives of increased social and economic independence. Founded in 2015, the organization is celebrating 10 years of its innovative, life-changing work. 

Situated on a verdant 13-acre campus in Fair Oaks, Meristem’s main program currently serves more than 50 students, with 25 living on campus. From 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., students participate in classes and activities designed to meet goals they’ve set for themselves. Those residing in the dorms immerse themselves in independent living instruction throughout evenings and weekends. Depending on need, students may spend two to four years in this program. 

“Our program uses a re-stepping process, taking students back to developmental milestones, identifying where progress stopped and helping them break those developmental blocks,” says Executive Director Erin Schirm. “We succeed in empowering 75% of participants to attain greater, more independent lives, such as attending college, securing a career and many other life-changing improvements.”

“We provide a sense of purpose and belonging that our students thrive on, and it will always be our mission to help them find independent and productive lives.” -Erin Schirm, Executive Director

The main program encompasses courses in life skills, land work, movement therapy, craft and self leadership. A work skills program is also provided to all students, including some not enrolled in the main program. Meristem looks to increase overall enrollment and expand program offerings, including making the work skills program its own track apart from the therapeutic day program. As just one example of the work skills program, the on-campus Meristem Café helps students develop skills and is open to the public.

Meristem invites the community to their fundraising events, Awaken the Possible in September and Feast of the Wreaths in December. “We welcome anyone wanting to join us in any way — as a program participant or simply having lunch at our café, making a donation or participating in our events,” says Schirm.

Meristem is working to secure its financial sustainability so it can continue transforming lives for many years to come. Schrim concludes, “We provide a sense of purpose and belonging that our students thrive on, and it will always be our mission to help them find independent and productive lives.”