Finding Independence and Friendship: Matthew’s Journey Through the Prism Program

At Triangle, Inc.’s Annual Golf Classic, Matthew, a member of the Prism Program, shared his experience with how the program has helped him grow and start achieving his goals.

“Prism was a perfect fit for me because they take the time to understand each person and their needs,” Matthew said. Autism is a spectrum and everyone at the Prism Program is working on their own goals. Matthew’s goals are to get a job, learn new coping skills, and make healthy choices.

While at Triangle, Matthew has been able to accomplish and make progress towards those goals. Matthew has gained employment experience as a receptionist at Triangle’s Broadway site, which has given him a new sense of independence and a paycheck. He also earned an IT certificate, which he hopes will be helpful in his future employment search.

“Not everyone with autism has a place to go to be themselves and find peers,” Matthew shared. “But Prism emphasizes having a good time with gaming, going out to eat, going on trips, or even just hanging out.” Through the Prism Program, Matthew has made some of his best friends and has enjoyed sharing Friday night movies and bowling hangouts with other members.

Matthew shared that he also sees how the Prism Program has been beneficial for other members. “Sometimes people think people with autism share the same difficulties,” Matthew emphasized. “We definitely do not. We are all different. We are just like anyone else in terms of working on skills we want to build and how to make connections with our friends and family.”

After sharing his story, Matthew received a standing ovation from the more than 100 golfers and partners in attendance. And as a true showman, he took a well-deserved bow. Up next, Matthew will continue working on his job skills and pursuing his next career opportunity.