For the past 20 years, we have been known as Companions, dedicated to empowering individuals with autism and other intellectual disabilities to thrive in work, home, and community. Over time, we have grown, evolved, and expanded our vision. While our core commitment remains the same, our focus has sharpened—helping individuals secure meaningful employment, find independent housing, and access enabling technologies in alignment with Maryland’s Employment-First, Housing-First, and Technology-First initiatives.
As part of this evolution, we are excited to introduce our new name: Elevate Spectrum. This name reflects our unwavering mission to elevate opportunities, independence, and autonomy for individuals with autism or I/DD.
Why the name change?
We have always believed in the power of empowerment, choice, and opportunity. Over the years, we have transitioned from a traditional care model to one that champions self-determination, autonomy, and workplace inclusion. Our participants have challenged us to go further — not just to care, but to support and uplift. Elevate Spectrum represents this transformation and our deepened commitment to helping individuals achieve gainful employment and greater independence.
We recognize that the landscape of disability services has shifted significantly in the last two decades. Society has moved from a model of care toward one of support and advocacy, ensuring that individuals are not only included but valued and thriving in their communities. Our new identity aligns with this progress, reinforcing our role as a leader in employment, housing, and technology-enhanced services for individuals with autism and other intellectual disabilities.
What stays the same?
While our name and look are changing, the foundation of who we are remains the same:
- Same dedicated team – Our direct support professionals, employment specialists, housing specialists, assistive technology professionals, and management team remain committed to delivering person-driven services.
- Same high-quality support – We continue to support individuals to achieve employment, housing, and daily living goals as outlined in their Person-Centered Plans (PCPs).
- Same flexibility & choice – We remain steadfast in offering services that prioritize the unique needs of each individual.
- Same family partnership – Families continue to be vital partners in ensuring success and independence for those we serve.
- Same commitment to advocacy – We continue to champion policies that promote inclusive workplaces and greater autonomy for individuals.
What’s new, besides the name?
With our new name, we are expanding opportunities for individuals to build fulfilling lives. Our enhanced focus includes:
- Increased job readiness & placement support – Strengthening partnerships with employers to create diverse and inclusive workplaces, providing rapid job placement, and enhancing pre-employment training services (Pre-ETs).
- Innovative housing and technology-enhanced supports – Enhancing community linkages for affordable housing, rental assistance, and tech-enabled Smart Living.
- On-demand drop-in supports – Offering on-demand, flexible drop-in supports to bridge the gap for individuals who seek independence and need minimal assistance with daily living activities.
- Live webinars & training events – Creating more opportunities for learning, networking, and skill-building, equipping individuals and families to better navigate systems and chart their chosen life path.
- Advocacy & public awareness initiatives – Elevate Spectrum will continue to advocate for policies that remove employment barriers, promote greater independence, and advance inclusion for individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities.
You’re still in great hands
If you have been with us as Companions, rest assured — we are still the same trusted organization with the same heart, passion, and dedication. This transition allows us to do what we do best — helping individuals on their journey toward greater independence and employment success. We are here to walk alongside each individual, providing the tools and support they need to build the life and future they envision.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Welcome to Elevate Spectrum!
Read more
- General information (homepage)
- About employment
- FastTrack to Work employment program
- Forward Autism Pre-ETS training for high school students
- About housing
- Housing supports (general)
- Smart Living tech-enabled apartments with remote monitoring and support
- Upcoming events
- Spectrum Day Out day trips
- Spotlight Sessions – monthly lunch & learn on Zoom
- About us
