“Life Is Beautiful, and There Are Other Neurodivergent People Out There Too”: A Strengths-Based Arts Program for Autistic Youth

Publishing Journal: Interdisciplinary Journal of Partnership Studies

Authors

Dr. Jeana M. Holt, Dr. Katelyn Siekman, Caroline Enes

Abstract

This program evaluation examined outcomes of a program called The Fellowship, designed for autistic youth and young adults ages 15–39 and implemented across six rural and mid-sized Wisconsin communities. The Fellowship integrates interest-driven creative activities, peer discussion, and reflection, grounded in Positive Youth Development and the OT framework of doing, being, belonging, + becoming. Fifty-four participants engaged in the six-month program. The authors used thematic analysis of weekly online post-session reflections to assess program impact. The authors identified five themes: Belonging and Community-Building, Artistic Process and Perseverance, Artistic Self-Efficacy, Self-Discovery, and Program Enjoyment. Participants frequently reported increased confidence, connection, and a sense of identity through creative expression. The authors identified creative agency and consistent community support as key facilitators in these outcomes. Findings indicated that The Fellowship fosters critical developmental outcomes for autistic youth and young adults, including improved self-confidence, social connection, and a sense of identity, which are essential for successful transitions to adulthood and community belonging. These results suggest practical implications for professionals working with autistic youth, highlighting the value of integrating creative, strengths-based, and community-centered approaches. Further research of long-term outcomes is needed to understand the broader applicability of this approach across various populations and settings.