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Our Why

Joi is the why. The mission is bigger than one family.

JCATF was created from a personal journey and a desire to help create a stronger pathway for Level 1 autistic young adults after high school, ages 18–24, while also recognizing and supporting the caregivers who walk beside them.

Joi in her pink cap and gown holding her high school diploma
Young woman counting dollar bills while practicing financial literacy skills
Two women smiling and hugging at a JCATF community gathering

Joi's Story

Joi in her pink cap and gown holding her high school diploma

Joi Is The Why.

God gave Cheryl Jackson a vision through her daughter, Joi. After years of watching Joi grow, learn, overcome challenges, and transition beyond high school, Cheryl recognized a gap that many families face: autism does not stop at age 18.

The transition into adulthood can bring new questions about independence, employment, education, housing, transportation, finances, relationships, and long-term support. JCATF was created to help families meet those questions with hope.

See How The Pathway Works