Real-World Classrooms. Paid Experiences. Lasting Independence.

At Achieve, we don't just teach job skills in a classroom— we build them in the community. Through our innovative inclusive employment model, neurodivergent people earn a paycheck while receiving hands-on mentorship in real-world businesses purposefully created to build job skills and confidence.

Get Involved

THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMMING

Our programs combine paid work experience, personalized mentorship, practical training, and community connection to help neurodivergent individuals build on their strengths, gain confidence, and pursue their goals.

Paid Work Experience

Building real-world resumes through dignified, paid training.

Purposeful Businesses: Brew & Bloom Coffee Shop and Little Engine Eatery provide supportive workplaces intentionally created for learning and growth.
Hands-On Skills: Achievers develop skills in customer service, food preparation, cash register systems, teamwork, and workplace communication.
Individualized Mentorship: Managers and mentors provide guidance during each shift, helping Achievers build on their strengths and learn from challenges.

Job Coaching & Community Employment

Developing pathways from supported training to community jobs.

Career Preparation: Our emerging initiative will help participants explore their interests, prepare resumes, and practice interviewing.
Employer Connections: We are developing relationships with local businesses to identify internship and employment opportunities.
Continued Support: As the program grows, individualized job coaching will help participants navigate workplace expectations and succeed in their roles.

Social Navigation & Family and Community Connection

Breaking down rural isolation through community connection

Achieve Social: Organized outings and activities offer opportunities to build friendships, try new experiences, and connect with the community.
Achieve After Hours: Inclusive gatherings at Brew & Bloom create a welcoming space for participants, families, and community members to connect.
Parent Education & Connection: We are developing opportunities for parents and caregivers to learn, share resources, and build supportive relationships.

Level Up Job & Life Skills Training

Building job readiness & independence through practical workshops and activities.

Practical Seminars: Focused workshops help participants explore workplace expectations and prepare for employment.
Workplace Readiness: Interactive activities build communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and self-advocacy skills.
Personal Growth: Participants identify their strengths, practice new skills, and build confidence in taking their next steps.

Our Living Classrooms

We operate permanent and seasonal social enterprises across Chaffee County. These businesses serve high-quality products to locals and tourists alike, proving that an inclusive workforce is a competitive workforce.

Brew & Bloom

Our year-round coffee shop social enterprise is located at Jane’s Place in Salida. It serves as our central hub for barista training, customer experience coaching, and year-round leadership development.

Learn More

Little Engine Eatery

Our seasonal gourmet food trailer operates mid-May through early August in Buena Vista. This fast-paced summer kitchen is where many of our participants get their very first taste of a fast-casual team environment.

Learn More

Cultivating a Neurodivergent Community that Inspires Independence

Belonging builds confidence and is a catalyst for greater independence. Through Achieve Social outings, After Hours gatherings, and Level Up job and life skills workshops and seminars, we offer welcoming opportunities to build lasting connections, develop practical skills, and reduce isolation. Many events also welcome parents and caregivers, creating space for families to connect, learn, and find support. Together, we’re building a community where individuals and families feel valued and included. With encouragement from peers and mentors, participants build the confidence and sense of self-worth to pursue their goals, experience personal growth, and gain greater independence in everyday life.

Explore Upcoming Events

Why Our Model Works

Nationally, neurodivergent individuals face up to a 90% underemployment rate. However, by focusing  on real wages, supportive environments, and local business partnerships, over 75% of Achieve program graduates aged 18 and older successfully transition into meaningful community employment.

Learn More

Get Involved

Become an Achiever

Are you a neurodivergent person looking for a purpose-driven, paid internship?

Learn More

Become a Peer Mentor

Are you a teen or young adult interested in a career in special education or social work and wanting to build leadership skills while supporting inclusive community spaces?

Learn More

Get Started with Achieve Social

Before attending Achieve Social events, please complete our participant registration form with your basic information and liability waiver. Then sign up for the individual events you’d like to attend by going to our events page.

Achieve Social Registration

Support Our Mission

Help create opportunities for neurodivergent individuals to build job and life skills, gain confidence, and find meaningful work and community connection.

Donate Now