Autism activists in southwestern Connecticut are trying to raise money to build a place where autistic adults can learn and flourish.

Breeta Derany and her husband started the Greenwich-based non-profit organization Friends of Autistic People to help their daughter, Vanessa. They say autism services are not mandated and not legislated by the state. However, the Deranys say Connecticut is in dire need of services for autistic adults.

?When they age out of school at age 21, there?s just nowhere to put them to go in Connecticut,? Breeta Derany says.

Dr. Nancy O?Hara says a working farm in southwestern Connecticut is a place where autistic adults can flourish. O?Hara adds that she has seen similar programs succeed in other states and hopes to see it happen in Connecticut.

Breeta Derany says the state will help fund the farm once it?s up and running. However, her organization is relying on generous donations from foundations, corporations and individuals to actually build the farm.

Related Information:Connecituct Friends of Autistic People