About Breakthrough:

Breakthrough Corporation was founded in September 1999. Board members of the Autism Society of America East Tennessee Chapter (ASA-ETC) with maturing children were alarmed at the lack of services available for individuals with autism once they aged out of the school system at age 22. To address this need, ASA-ETC voted to provide initial funding to apply for 501 (c) 3 non-profit status  and a Board of Directors was established.  Breakthrough's board recognized the variety of needs adults with autism require.  The board, therefore, determined the continuum of services they would like to see provided in the East Tennessee area for adults with autism.  Independence for some can be addressed with little assistance in a home in the community.  For others, their highest degree of independence may be obtained in a more campus based environment.  Breakthrough Corporation was therefore developed as an innovative nonprofit organization providing a variety of services that fosters independence and community involvement for adults with autism.  Breakthrough is currently licensed to provide supported living, personal assistance, respite and day services. Procuring a letter of agreement for Vocational Rehabilitation Services is in progress.  

Breakthrough's mission is to improve the lives of adults with autism.

 
Our guiding principles are to provide: 

•  Nurturing, cost effective housing options
•  Connections with family and community
•  Personal fulfillment through education and training, meaningful work and leisure activities
• Safety of residents
• Temporary relief for families in need of respite care
• Learning partnerships with local institutions of  higher education
• Training for family members, staff, therapists, instructors and interns