Fairfax County is at a crossroads—and for many families of neurodivergent young adults, the path ahead is looking more uncertain than ever. As part of proposed fiscal cuts for 2026, the county is considering pulling essential funding from programs that support students with developmental disabilities, including autism.
Among the most troubling proposals? The elimination of resources like College Steps, a post-secondary support program that helps students with autism and other neurodivergent conditions thrive in a college setting. For many, this isn’t just a line item on a budget—it’s a lifeline.
Why the Neurodivergent Community Is at Risk
The proposed cuts will directly impact funding for services that support students transitioning from high school to college and adult life—often described by families as “falling off a cliff.” These programs are specifically designed to prevent that cliff from becoming a freefall.
Students supported by initiatives like College Steps are not in special education classrooms. They’re enrolled in regular college courses at places like Northern Virginia Community College. What they need is structured academic guidance, executive functioning support, tutoring, and, critically, help building the social and life skills that are often harder to develop independently.
By removing the roughly $645,000 in county funding, over 60 students may be left to find—or afford—services on their own, with some families expected to pay nearly $20,000 annually out of pocket to maintain the same level of support.
The Real-World Impact of Losing College Support
For families like that of Rami, a student on the autism spectrum attending NOVA and planning to transfer to George Mason University, the potential loss is devastating. “If I don’t have College Steps helping me, I might as well drop out now,” Rami told his mother, who has been deeply involved in local advocacy efforts.
Without the program, families are left scrambling. They either sacrifice academic goals, seek expensive outside help, or face a return to dependence on county support systems that are already stretched thin. This shift undermines decades of progress in helping neurodivergent individuals achieve greater independence, employment, and meaningful participation in their communities.
Disruption to Daily Structure and Long-Term Goals
Students with autism often thrive on structure, consistency, and routine. The proposed defunding does more than threaten academic success—it disrupts carefully built systems of daily function, social engagement, and emotional well-being. For students who have made progress in their college and personal lives thanks to structured programs, these cuts feel like erasing hard-earned momentum.
It’s not just about college dreams—it’s about dignity, confidence, and the very real possibility of living a self-sufficient life.
Expanding Support Beyond Public Systems: ABA Therapy Services in Virginia
While we hope Fairfax County will reconsider its cuts, families still need solutions—and that’s where we step in.
At Aluma Care, we offer individualized ABA therapy services in Virginia to support children and young adults across all stages of development. Whether your child is starting school, transitioning to adulthood, or navigating college life, our team is here to provide consistent, compassionate care rooted in evidence-based practices.
We understand how critical it is to support neurodivergent individuals beyond just the classroom. Our ABA therapy programs focus on communication, executive functioning, social skills, and life planning—equipping individuals with the tools they need to grow confidently into adulthood.
Moving Forward—Together
These proposed budget cuts don’t just impact programs—they impact people. And while families continue to advocate for sustained support from public agencies, we’re here to ensure they don’t have to walk this path alone.
Get in touch today to learn how our ABA therapy services in Virginia can help your child maintain progress, independence, and confidence—no matter what changes the future may bring.
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