Beyond Barriers: Exploring Community Access Unlimited’s Impact – Part 1
Community Access Unlimited (CAU) is dedicated to empowering over 3,000 people with disabilities and youth at risk, known as “members,” to lead fully integrated and independent lives in their communities. Through a broad spectrum of support services including housing, daily life skills, employment, personal finance, and social inclusion, CAU seeks to build an accessible, all-inclusive world where everyone can find fulfillment.
Central to its mission, CAU’s Community Supports Program provides approximately 500 members support with budgeting, grocery shopping, and attending medical appointments. With guidance from compassionate staff, members grow in confidence and independence. One member, with the ongoing assistance of CAU’s Direct Support Professionals, moved into his own apartment and volunteered at the local fire department, gaining skills and contributing as an active community member. This member said, “The staff assist me to relax more, and I am satisfied with the program. I have nothing bad to say about the services I receive.”
CAU’s employment services open pathways to meaningful work, independence, and self-advocacy. Through prevocational services, individuals explore job opportunities, develop necessary workplace skills, and participate in job shadowing and internships. Each member receives personalized assessments and training in areas such as workplace safety, communication, and professionalism, giving them the tools they need to transition confidently into paid employment or further education. One member of CAU’s evening cleaning crew said, “Working with members like me is great! I like making my own money and coming to CAU.” Supported employment opportunities include both group and individualized job placements where ongoing coaching ensures pay equity, skills growth, and smooth integration into the wider workforce. Another crew member shared, “Coming to see all of my friends at CAU is good for me. I like for everything to be presentable and clean when I do my job. I like to do the best job that I can!” A third expressed, “I like working at CAU to make money.” CAU’s tailored career counseling further supports members by identifying individual strengths and interests, guiding job searches, and preparing them for success through resume workshops and interview practice. If you’re interested in learning more about CAU’s Community Supports Program or Employment Services, please check out our website at caunj.org or contact info@caunj.org.
The transition from school to adulthood can be daunting, and CAU’s Planning for Adult Life (PFAL) program meets that challenge with free guidance and resources statewide, thanks to partnerships with the Division of Developmental Disabilities and the Arc of New Jersey. PFAL supports young adults in securing the knowledge and tools needed for self-advocacy and overcoming the barriers of labeling and bullying. In 2024 alone, over 600 individuals attended more than 50 sessions, nearly doubling participation from the previous year. Many of these interactive sessions are led by people with disabilities themselves, providing valuable leadership and employment experience while inspiring their peers. As one educator at The Felician School in Lodi, NJ, reflects, “Since partnering with PFAL, our students look forward to the weekly presentations on self-advocacy, confidence, and independence. Seeing peers confidently working and sharing their experiences inspires them tremendously. PFAL’s support is invaluable and losing this program would be a true disservice.” If you’re interested in learning more about Planning for Adult Life for your students, please fill out the form: or contact PFAL@caunj.org.
From fostering independent living to boosting employment opportunities and cultivating the next generation of self-advocates, CAU stands as a vital force for inclusion, empowerment, and meaningful community life.
