Integrated Social Enterprises
Creating meaningful opportunities for skill-building, independence, and community participation.
CSAAC’s Integrated Social Enterprises provide individuals with autism real-world opportunities to develop vocational skills, build confidence, and actively participate in their communities. Through partnerships with local businesses and our own community-based programs, we create supportive environments where individuals can learn, grow, and thrive.
Each enterprise is designed to offer hands-on experience in a structured, supportive setting while promoting independence, responsibility, and meaningful community engagement.
Rita’s Italian Ice
Our partnership with Rita’s Italian Ice provides individuals with valuable food service experience in a welcoming community setting. Participants develop essential skills while serving customers and contributing to daily operations.
- Customer service and communication skills
- Food preparation and safety practices
- Cash handling and point-of-sale operations
- Teamwork and workplace responsibility
- Time management and task completion
Ledo Pizza
At Ledo Pizza, individuals gain hands-on experience in restaurant operations, learning valuable skills that translate to daily living and future employment opportunities.
- Food preparation and kitchen safety
- Following recipes and instructions
- Maintaining cleanliness and organization
- Working as part of a team
- Building daily living and independence skills
CSAAC Damascus Farm Project
Established two years ago, this farm-based vocational learning initiative creates hands-on, skill-building opportunities through structured farming activities. The project focuses on promoting responsibility, enhancing daily living skills, and fostering meaningful participation in agricultural tasks.
Program Components:
- Caring for a flock of ten chickens—feeding, providing water, collecting eggs, and preparing eggs for donation to the East Village
- Planting, watering, maintaining, and harvesting crops and vegetables on a one-acre parcel
- Identifying crop types best suited to soil and environmental conditions
- Understanding pest and wildlife challenges
- Building sustainable farming routines
Future Focus: In the upcoming program year, individuals and staff will continue developing agricultural skills with emphasis on increasing yield, strengthening routine responsibilities, and enhancing the overall vocational learning experience.
In-Focus Photography Program
Founded by Craig Pardini, the In-Focus Photography Program provides individuals with autism a creative outlet for self-expression and skill development. This award-winning program teaches technical photography skills while building confidence and artistic vision.
- Photography techniques and camera operation
- Artistic composition and creative expression
- Digital editing and image processing
- Portfolio development and presentation
- Professional skill-building and recognition
All prints are professionally produced on high-quality paper and available for purchase through our online store, with proceeds supporting the program.
Vending Machine Services
Vending Machine Services offers structured activities in inventory management and customer service, providing participants with practical business skills and a sense of accomplishment.
- Inventory tracking and restocking
- Basic math and counting skills
- Route planning and logistics
- Customer interaction and service
- Responsibility and accountability
Learn More About Our Programs
Interested in learning how our Integrated Social Enterprises can benefit someone you know? Contact us to learn more about enrollment and opportunities.
Contact Us