 Get ready for a holly jolly night of fun! 
 Test your knowledge of holiday movies, music, and traditions while enjoying festive cheer.Our NEW 16-week program designed to help adults work toward independence.
Scholarship for programs are available. Send an email to info@cayaproject.org to request more information.
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Come As You Are (CAYA)
Welcome to Come As You Are (CAYA), a nonprofit organization devoted to empowering independence and fostering neuroinclusivity for neurodivergent adults across Hampton Roads, Virginia! Our mission is to cultivate autonomy, elevate self-esteem, and champion inclusivity through comprehensive behavioral, social, and workplace skill-building programs. At Caya, we are dedicated to creating an environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in both their personal and professional lives.Â
Caya was founded in 2024 with the goal of supporting individuals of all abilities in achieving independence and fostering a culture of inclusivity in the workplace. Our programs are built by clinicians and peer-reviewed by neurodivergent stakeholders and professionals to ensure our content aligns with both clinical expertise and lived experiences. Through direct support and our READY program, we assist individuals in developing essential skills and advocating for themselves.
Our mission is to empower individuals by addressing their unique needs with person-centered support, focusing on social and behavioral skills, workplace dynamics, and self-advocacy training.
In addition to supporting individuals, Caya partners with employers to create environments where neuroinclusive practices can thrive. By embracing accommodations and fostering an inclusive culture, employers empower the neurodivergent community—and everyone benefits. Together, we are unlocking potential and transforming workplaces for the better.
After attending the Caya READY Workshop, Joan attended the Caya Neurodivergent job fair. From there, she secured a job and so much more.
How Joan Found Confidence, Community, and a Job with CAYA
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Rooted in empathy and empowerment, CAYA supports autistic adults with personalized career coaching and job placement services, guiding them towards meaningful employment. We offer comprehensive supports that enable independence and confidence. Our programs are tailored to support individual goals, fostering long-term success in the workplace.
At CAYA, we collaborate with employers to remove bias from their recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and retention processes, fostering inclusive work environments. We help employers create tailored strategies that support diversity and inclusion. Additionally, we match autistic individuals with employers that align with their skills and career aspirations, ensuring a good fit for both parties
CAYA partners with educators and education institutions to bring our person-centered approach directly into schools. Using our core curriculum, we create custom programming that supports neurodivergent students in building confidence, developing practical life and workplace skills, and preparing for the transition to adulthood.
Our vision is a community where everyone has the
opportunity to grow into their full potential with
confidence, independence, and a true sense of
belonging.
We imagine a future in which individuals are supported
through compassionate, person-centered skill-building
that strengthens their lives both personally and
professionally.
At CAYA, we believe that when people are met with
understanding, encouragement, and the right tools,
they can thrive on their own terms and participate more
fully in inclusive, connected communities.
Come As You Are is a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit organization
EIN 99-4058313
