Needs
How You Can Help
Your support fuels the transformative work of helping neurodiverse young adults build lives of purpose, connection, and independence. Here's how your contribution makes a difference:
Open Doors with Student Scholarships
Many talented young adults have the potential to thrive but face financial barriers. Your gift to our scholarship fund directly removes those obstacles. It ensures that every student, regardless of their family's financial situation, has the opportunity to access our transformative programs and build the skills they need for a successful future.
Power the Meristem Method
The Meristem Method is our answer to a fundamental question: why do traditional teaching methods often fail neurodiverse learners? Our approach is rooted in the principle of Experiential Learning—or "Learning by Doing." It’s a comprehensive, research-based methodology that builds real-world skills and lasting confidence.
Your support for the Meristem Method allows us to:
• Go Beyond the Classroom: We integrate five core areas of development: practical life skills, therapeutic movement, nature immersion, hands-on craft, and self-leadership. This holistic approach ensures we are developing the whole person, not just teaching isolated tasks.
• Personalize the Journey: We don’t use a one-size-fits-all model. Our instructors are trained in a wide range of evidence-based philosophies—from Montessori to Behavior Skills Training—and they tailor their approach to each student's unique learning style, interests, and goals.
• Fuel a Cycle of Growth: The Method is built on a five-stage cycle: articulate goals, practice in a structured setting, reflect on the results, revise the approach, and repeat. This empowers students to become self-directed learners, preparing them for a lifetime of growth.
When you give to the Meristem Method, you are funding a thoughtful, proven, and deeply intentional approach that transforms potential into independence. It is the most powerful way to give, as it fuels the very engine of our work.
Support Our Core Programs
Your gift provides the comprehensive support our students need to build lives of purpose and independence. You'll be funding a unique ecosystem of programs that work together to develop the whole person:
• The Day Program: This is the heart of Meristem, where students engage in hands-on learning from Monday to Friday. Your support funds a rich curriculum that goes beyond the classroom, including land work in our organic garden, craft skills in our workshops, and movement therapy. It also powers our student-run social enterprises like the Meristem Café, where students gain practical job skills.
• The Independent Living Skills (ILS) Program: For students living on campus, the learning continues 24/7. Your gift supports our residential program, where students practice the skills of daily life—from budgeting and cooking to household management—in a safe and supportive environment. This immersive experience is where true independence takes root.
• The Work Skills Program: This specialized program prepares students for meaningful employment. Your support provides personalized job coaching, resume preparation, and crucial internship opportunities with community partners. It gives students the direct experience and confidence they need to launch their careers.
Join Our Community as a Volunteer
Time and talent are just as valuable as treasure. We welcome volunteers to help with campus projects, support our events, and share their skills with our students. It's a powerful way to see the Meristem Method in action and make a lasting impact. To get involved, please contact Twyla Teitzel at twylat@meristem.pro.