Nonprofit of the Month: Same As U

For many young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the transition out of high school can feel like stepping off a cliff. After years of structured learning, social opportunities, and community support, they are suddenly left with limited options, often working just a few hours a week, with long stretches of unstructured time at home. The absence of meaningful engagement can lead to loneliness, isolation, and even depression.

Founded by longtime friends and fellow parents Jennifer Sell and Sara MacGregor, Same As U, a human services nonprofit, is providing meaningful programming in a unique setting. It’s a place where young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities can continue their education, develop life skills and build a strong community. The program offers a structured yet engaging curriculum that blends academics with practical, real-world applications, ensuring that students don’t just learn, but also thrive.

Sell and MacGregor’s journey started years ago when they met at a Down syndrome parent group. Their daughters, both born with Down syndrome, were the catalyst for a friendship that eventually led to an ambitious vision: creating a learning-focused program tailored to young adults who want more than just recreational activities.

“We visited several programs out of state and realized that what was missing in our community was an educational model,” MacGregor says. “Our students love learning, and we wanted to create a space where they could continue to grow academically and socially in a setting that felt like college.”

Unlike other programs, Same As U operates like a college for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The daily schedule includes five academic classes covering life skills. social skills, job training, current events and functional math. In addition to academics, students participate in music and art classes, and a modified CrossFit program called Uniquely Abled Fitness, ensuring they stay active and engaged.

The school day is designed to be both educational and fun. “Classes are only 30 minutes long, and we incorporate a dance break, a 20-minute walk and a social lunch,” MacGregor says. “We want students to enjoy their time here while continuing to develop essential skills.”

For Same As U students like Mia McIntosh, the transition to adulthood often feels different than it does for their neurotypical siblings. Many watch as their brothers and sisters head off to college while they are left with few structured opportunities.

“Same As U has been a fantastic continuation of academic education for Mia,” says Kelly McIntosh, Mia’s mother. “She has made new friends and enjoys music class the most.”

Public education has made great strides in inclusion and accessibility, with students actively participating in clubs, sports and education classes. However, those opportunities often vanish when students age out of the system at around age 22. Same As U fills this gap, offering young adults a sense of belonging, purpose and continued growth.

“When people enter the building, they see the words Learn, Grow, Belong, & Thrive,” Sell says. “That sense of belonging is so important. Our students truly care about each other. They notice when someone isn’t there, they check in and they form genuine friendships.”

As a nonprofit, Same As U thrives on community support, and there are many ways to get involved. Volunteers can assist with lunch breaks, participate in the annual golf outing or even serve as guest speakers.

“We’ve had a race-car driver bring his car, a magician perform tricks and a dentist give a presentation,” says MacGregor. “Our students are eager to learn, and love when people share their talents and passions with them.”

As Same As U continues to grow, one thing remains constant; its mission is to help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities live the life they imagine.