The THRIVE Program at UNF

What is THRIVE?

Across the nation, hundreds of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are applying and enrolling in institutions of higher education. The THRIVE Program at the University of North Florida (UNF), created and developed by dedicated staff within the Student Accessibility Center (SAC) and the College of Education and Human Services (COEHS), is proud to serve students with ASD as they transition to and experience life at UNF.

The Transition to Healthiness, Resourcefulness, Independence, Vocation, and Education (THRIVE) program was first developed in 2012, under the direct guidance of the former DRC director with the help of three UNF students. THRIVE supports students with ASD at UNF throughout college to ensure their experience is both successful and fulfilling. THRIVE believes that these basic supplemental services should be provided to students at no additional cost, and is free to all eligible students.

The THRIVE program is unique to UNF and provides supplemental resources for degree-seeking students with ASD at the UNF. THRIVE focuses on four primary areas of need:

Social skills
Independent living skills
Career development skills
Executive functioning skills

THRIVE aims to help students achieve competency in these crucial skills for use both within and outside the college setting, preparing them for life beyond UNF. Autism affects individuals in different ways, which is why THRIVE is not a one-size-fits-all program; our ever-developing supports are designed to meet the individual needs of each student. Participation in THRIVE is voluntary, and students who put in the effort will get the most out of the program.

Student Accessibility Center
Tom and Betty Petway Hall
(Building 57), Room 1500
1 UNF Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32224