The physical environment at Sweetwater Spectrum abounds in clean lines and open spaces, forming a space that is physically comfortable for the residents and staff. Even more importantly, says co-founder and current board president Caroline Klebanoff, was the creation of a psychic and emotional environment where the resident would feel secure and able to exercise their individual independence.

   The founders of Sweetwater Spectrum quite deliberately set out to create a new model of long-term housing for adults with autism, a place where each individual’s unique needs and preferences could be accommodated. Having done that once, says Klebanoff , they are now trying to develop a framework that can be reproduced in other places.