Our Programs

Three programs, one belief.

Every Standing Tall Collective program is built around the same idea: youth and young adults with disabilities can build real skills, find real mentors, and create real plans for their own futures.

Pre-Employment Transition Services

ARISE

Advocacy, Readiness, Independence, Skills & Empowerment

Pre-employment training mapped to Washington's five Pre-ETS categories, job-readiness skills, and self-advocacy development for young people and adults with disabilities preparing for employment, postsecondary education, and greater independence.

Instruction mapped to Washington's five Pre-Employment Transition Services categories: job exploration, workplace readiness, self-advocacy, postsecondary counseling, and work-based learning
Practical instruction in job searches, resumes, interviews, and workplace rights
Financial literacy and independent-living skills
Internships and paid work-based learning opportunities

Learn about ARISE

Peer Mentorship · Relaunching Late 2027

PATH

Peer Assistance through Transition and Healing

Peer mentorship for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, pairing participants with mentors who share lived experience as they move from institutional or highly supported environments toward greater community participation and independence. Relaunching in late 2027.

One-to-one peer mentorship for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Support transitioning from institutional or highly supported environments into the community
Mentors matched for culturally responsive, relatable guidance
Community navigation support and increased community participation

Learn about PATH

Outdoor Leadership · Relaunching 2027

LEAP

Leadership, Environment, Adventure, and Purpose

A six-week outdoor recreation and leadership program for youth ages 12 to 18, with a particular focus on Black boys and young men eligible for special education services. Relaunching and expanding in 2027.

Outdoor recreation, environmental education, and leadership development
Civic engagement and culturally responsive social-emotional learning
Coast Salish environmental practices, environmental racism, and climate justice
Advocacy, public speaking, research, and presentation skills

Learn about LEAP

Who We Serve

Built for youth, families, and the systems around them.

Neurodivergent & Neurotypical Youth & Young Adults

Ages 14–26, building skills, finding mentors, and shaping their own plans for the future.

Incarcerated Youth

Young people in juvenile justice settings, including DCYF sites such as Echo Glen, gaining workforce and self-advocacy skills.

Families

Families navigating IEPs and transition planning, alongside their student rather than apart from them.

Schools & Districts

Educators and administrators looking for transition and pre-employment programming that works.

Community Organizations

Partners doing complementary work across Washington State.

Funders

Funders investing in equity, workforce development, and long-term outcomes for youth with disabilities.

Want to bring a program to your school or organization?

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