EMPOWER Program Helps Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities Thrive

University Relations

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. –  The EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas helps young adults with mild intellectual disabilities build the knowledge, skills, and friendships they need for a bright and successful future.

The four-year, non-degree experiential learning program in the College of Education and Health Professions incorporates functional academics, independent living, employment, health and wellness, and social skills within a university setting, where participants build skills, strong friendships, and support structures for life.

The program began at the U of A in 2017 and is designated as a Comprehensive Transition Program through the U.S. Department of Education.

Learn more about this experiential learning program in the Short Takes video, “Empowered.”

About the University of Arkansas: The University of Arkansas provides an internationally competitive education for undergraduate and graduate students in more than 200 academic programs. The university contributes new knowledge, economic development, basic and applied research, and creative activity while also providing service to academic and professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the University of Arkansas among only 2.7 percent of universities in America that have the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of Arkansas among its top American public research universities. Founded in 1871, the University of Arkansas comprises 10 colleges and schools and maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio that promotes personal attention and close mentoring.