CLC is celebrating 25 Years of transforming lives through the science – and humanity – of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA).

For 25 years at CLC, we’ve seen ABA transform lives – not only through the measurable skills gained, but through the joy of connection, independence, and self-confidence it builds. ABA is a science for teaching children how to communicate their needs, make friends, use the bathroom independently, tie their shoes, and even sleep through the night. It is a vehicle for helping parents become empowered teachers and partners in progress. It teaches families to find hope through structure and growth through patience.

As the science of ABA continues to evolve, its heart remains the same: a belief in the potential of every learner. CLC’s 25-year journey has proven that autism is not a limitation– it’s a call to teach differently, observe closely, and celebrate progress of every size.

To our founders, families, staff, and supporters – thank you for 25 years of dedication, trust, and belief in the science that changes lives. Here’s to the next 25 years of possibility, compassion, and discovery!

In 2015, we made a decision that would shape the future of our organization—and the lives of the individuals we serve.

With the help of The AJ Foundation For Children With Autism, CLC opened its Adult Life Skills Program (ALSP) for individuals ages 18 and older who aged out of our Education Program, continuing support at a stage of life where services often become limited, but the need does not.

Created to support the transition into adulthood, the ALSP provides meaningful, year-round support grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis, helping individuals build independence and real-world skills through consistency and positive reinforcement.

Learners develop real-world skills through work at local churches, libraries, and food pantries. They also explore hobbies with peers in art and music classes and stay active through regular gym visits.

Today, 15 adults in the ALSP are building lasting relationships, gaining independence, and finding a true sense of belonging. Together, they are actively engaging in more than 25 community locations alongside their peers.

As we celebrate 25 years, we are especially proud of the ALSP— not just for what it provides, but for what it represents: a commitment to continue care and to ensure every individual has the opportunity to live a full and meaningful life.

Throwback to a milestone moment! In 2011, CLC held its first graduation ceremony, marking a major step forward in our mission to maximize the potential of individuals with autism and prepare our learners to become independent, active, and contributing members of their communities.

Our oldest student was proudly presented with a high school diploma and today works full-time in the community—a success made possible by the vocational training he received at CLC.

As we celebrate 25 years of growth and impact, we’re proud of the progress our students have made and grateful for the incredible community that has supported them along the way. Here’s to the next 25 years of learning, independence, and achievement!

As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we’re reflecting on the countless students whose lives have been shaped by their time at Comprehensive Learning Center—and today, we’re proud to highlight one of them: AJ, who attended CLC from 2000–2011.

Two instructors made a life-changing impact on AJ’s growth. Cindy Murphy, his instructor from age four, helped him build the foundation for success at school, at home, and out in the community. As he got older, Chris O’Toole taught him the essential skills he uses as an adult—like workplace readiness and navigating transportation. AJ says, “I’d never be where I am now without the help, guidance and instruction from Cindy and Chris. They believed in me and never gave up on my learning.”

The independence AJ gained at CLC shows up in every part of his life today— managing his personal hygiene routine, cooking and meal prep, laundry, using his phone, scheduling his days, staying home independently, taking public transportation, excelling at work, and enjoying leisure activities. “The list goes on and on,” he says. “It’s incredible all the wonderful things I’m able to do now because I was taught it at CLC!”

Today, AJ is thriving. He works two part-time jobs—as an Office Assistant at Adelphi Research and as part of the food prep team at Giuseppe’s Family Restaurant. He’s also an athlete and adventurer, playing rugby, hockey, basketball, and softball, while also skiing, swimming, visiting amusement parks, flying in small airplanes, and playing piano.

One of AJ’s proudest accomplishments is playing piano at his sister’s wedding and his grandmother’s funeral—moments that meant the world to him. And this year, he placed in the Top 20 of the Worldwide 2025 CrossFit Open (Men’s Intellectual Division)!

As AJ looks toward his next goal—moving into his own apartment—his journey reflects exactly what CLC strives for: confidence, independence, and a full, meaningful life. Here’s to AJ, and to 25 years of empowering individuals to achieve their greatest potential!

Twenty-five years ago, CLC began with a clear mission and a pioneering spirit. In 2000, The AJ Foundation opened Pennsylvania’s first licensed private school using Applied Behavior Analysis for children with autism. We launched our Elementary School Program at Comprehensive Learning Center in a modular trailer generously located at St. Bede the Venerable Catholic Church and School in Holland, PA, welcoming our very first three students.

Rooted in Applied Behavior Analysis and focused on one-to-one instruction, CLC has helped set the standard for high-quality, individualized education for individuals with autism. None of this growth would have been possible without the families, staff, and supporters who believed in our mission from the very beginning.

In 2018, we reached a long-held dream when we moved into our current facility—designed to support intensive, evidence-based instruction and allow our programs and students to thrive. From that first classroom to where we are today, our purpose remains the same: helping individuals with autism learn, grow, and thrive through intensive, evidence-based instruction and family collaboration, preparing them to be active, contributing members in their communities where they live, work and play.

As we celebrate 25 years of the Comprehensive Learning Center, we’re proud to highlight Colin, who has been part of the CLC community since April 2004, when he joined us at just six years old. One of Colin’s earliest milestones was completing a LEGO set using a small book that broke the task into clear, manageable steps. When Cindy visited his home to check on his progress, it was clear these early routines were building a strong foundation. Another proud moment came in 2019, when Colin graduated from CLC’s education program!

Throughout his time at CLC, Aileen, Cindy, and Chris O. played a meaningful role in shaping Colin’s success. With their support, he developed strong skills in sorting, structured work tasks, and problem-solving—abilities he continues to use every day.

Today, Colin participates in the Adult Life Skills Program, where he volunteers at a local church and works at Caring for Friends in Philadelphia. Outside of work, he enjoys bowling with friends, spending time at the park, and working out at the “Y”.

One of Colin’s proudest accomplishments is learning to be more flexible while staying focused on completing tasks. He thrives on structured schedules, routines, and positive reinforcement, which help him feel successful and confident.

A major milestone in Colin’s journey toward independence is living in his own apartment with his friend and peer at CLC. As he continues adjusting to new routines, his story reflects exactly what CLC has worked toward for 25 years—building skills, confidence, and meaningful adult lives.

For more than two decades, the Comprehensive Learning Center has had the privilege of watching this learner grow into a confident, capable adult. He began his journey at CLC in September 2000 in the Education Program and transitioned to the Adult Life Skills Program in 2015, where he continues to thrive today.

During his time in school, he built an incredible work ethic by learning a wide variety of jobs both at CLC and out in the community. Some of his favorite activities include going out to lunch with his teachers and practicing how to order and pay independently. These experiences helped build his confidence and independence.

When asked who he enjoys spending time with, Dan always mentions Chris O’Toole. They have known each other since 2009, when Chris began his career at CLC as one of Dan’s instructors. Today, Dan enjoys working with Chris and Kevin in the Adult Life Skills Program.

At CLC, he learned to prepare himself for each day, create and follow his own schedule, pack his lunch, cook a variety of dinners, and lend a helping hand to others when needed. These routines continue to guide his daily life and success.

Since graduating, he has stayed incredibly active in his community. He volunteers every day—supporting a local library, church, and food pantry. Over the years, he has also worked at a grocery store and completed data entry at a doctor’s office, building a diverse set of job skills. He attends an art class every Friday at Art in the Pod and looks forward to bowling with friends each Tuesday.

One of his proudest accomplishments is the artwork he creates each week. And when it comes to what makes him happiest? Going out to eat tops the list! His journey is a wonderful example of what’s possible when independence is developed within a strong, supportive community.