LAUNCH Academy

Built to launch careers. Designed to empower independence.

The LAUNCH Academy is a one-year, inclusive college certificate designed to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) focusing on the development of the skills necessary for meaningful employment, community participation, and greater independence.

Through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on learning, internships, and individualized support, students build practical workplace skills, social communication abilities, and self-advocacy strategies that prepare them for competitive or supported employment.

Admission Requirements

– Must have successfully completed and graduated from Journey21’s Life Academy.

OR

– Must have successfully completed a recognized post-secondary education program and obtained an official certificate of completion (i.e., Shepherds College, UW-Whitewater, LIFE Program, Edgewood University- Cutting Edge Program, Concordia University-Hesed Transition Program).

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Program Goals:

Students in this program will:

  • Develop essential employment and job-readiness skills
  • Strengthen communication and interpersonal abilities
  • Build independence in daily living and workplace routines
  • Explore career interests through hands-on experiences
  • Gain real-world work experience through internships

Expected Outcomes:

Upon completion, students will:

  • Demonstrate workplace readiness skills

  • Have completed two internship placements

  • Understand how to advocate for workplace accommodations
  • Be prepared for competitive or supported employment
  • Possess a professional resume and job portfolio

LAUNCH Academy empowers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build confidence, develop practical employment skills, and transition successfully into the workforce and community life.


Matt Frisinger, 2026 LAUNCH Academy Student at his Marquette University Internship

Paige Fassbender
LAUNCH Academy Instructor

Program Structure

Employment & Job Readiness

Students learn foundational workplace skills, including:

  • Resume development and job applications
  • Interview preparation and practice
  • Workplace behavior and professionalism
  • Time management and organization
  • Following instructions and completing tasks independently
  • Understanding employer expectations

Communication & Social Skills

This component focuses on:

  • Effective verbal and non-verbal communication
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Conflict resolution
  • Problem-solving strategies
  • Self-advocacy and requesting accommodations

Independent Living Skills

Students build practical life skills that support employment success:

  • Budgeting and money management

  • Personal organization and hygiene
  • Technology basics (email, online applications, digital communication)
  • Personal health and wellness
  • Workplace safety awareness

Work-Based Learning/Internships

Students participate in supervised internships during the first and second semesters. Placements are aligned with each student’s interests and strengths. Supports include:

  • Job coaching

  • Employer collaboration
  • On-site skill reinforcement
  • Performance feedback and reflection