The OneBancroft Collaborative for Community Health
At Bancroft, progress is driven by partnership and a responsibility to look ahead. The OneBancroft Collaborative for Community Health is not only about meeting today’s needs, but about anticipating the challenges and opportunities of the next 15 years and beyond.
By shining a light on the unique health and wellness needs of people with autism and intellectual or developmental disabilities, we are working to ensure they have access to the same quality of care, opportunities, and supports we all want for ourselves and our families.
Through healthcare partnerships, new approaches, and groundbreaking research, we are shaping a future where healthier, fuller lives are possible for everyone.
Our Collaborative in Action
We are proud to work alongside world-class universities, health systems, and researchers who share our vision for advancing health and well-being.
The Pillars of the Collaborative
Improving Access to Care
Those with autism and intellectual or developmental disabilities often face barriers to routine healthcare. The Collaborative is working to change that. Through partnerships with leading health systems and universities, we’re bringing care directly to the people we support, ensuring continuity, reducing disparities, and improving long-term outcomes.
Here’s what we’re doing right now:
- Mobile Clinic – Meeting People Where They Are: In partnership with Cooper University Health Care, a mobile clinic now delivers sick and well visits, EKGs, and preventive screenings right at Bancroft program sites.
- Rowan University Partnership: Together with Rowan Integrated Special Needs Center (RISN) and the Department of Health & Exercise Science, we are creating a Food and Movement as Medicine Program, a first-of-its-kind model designed to weave wellness into everyday life for people with autism and I/DD.
- Drexel University Autism Institute: We are working to understand how to measure dementia and support healthy aging in those who are nonverbal and profoundly autistic.
- Drexel University Autism Institute: We are working on ways to increase access to mental health services and developing interventions for this population. We are committed to extending evidence-based treatment to the population Bancroft supports.
Harnessing Technology & New Approaches
Emerging tools and fresh ideas are opening doors to better engagement, earlier detection, and stronger support systems. Bancroft is exploring how these approaches can enhance quality of life while also supporting the dedicated staff who make our work possible.
Here’s what we’re doing right now:
- Artificial Intelligence & Robotics: In collaboration with St. Joseph’s University Haub Innovation Center, we’re piloting AI-enabled humanoid robots that engage older adults with autism and hold promise for detecting changes in health, such as cognitive decline.
- Virtual Reality: Partnering with Rowan University, we’re exploring VR for staff training, therapeutic engagement, and exercise programs that help promote physical and emotional well-being.
- Smart Homes: Bancroft is incorporating smart supports in group homes around the region to explore how technology can help enhance safety, increase independence, and improve quality of life for adults with disabilities – and help address longstanding challenges with the direct care workforce.
Advancing Research & Knowledge
The Collaborative is made up of more than just providers of care; we are a convener of ideas, partners in discovery, and leaders in national conversations on autism and aging. By sharing knowledge, we empower families, providers, and communities with new tools and understanding.
Here’s what we’re doing right now:
- Autism & Adulthood Seminar Series: In partnership with the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, this new series brings together leading experts to share cutting-edge research and clinical insights.
- Aging & Autism Roundtable: Alongside A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, University of North Carolina TEACCH Autism Program, and St. Joseph’s University, we are tackling the urgent need for better understanding of dementia and aging in adults with autism, particularly for those who are nonverbal.
- Grant-Funded Research: Bancroft is advancing studies on health, mental health, and social skills interventions in profound autism, creating evidence-based approaches that can be shared widely across the field.
Stories from the Collaborative
Robots and Aging: How AI is Supporting Older Adults with Autism
In partnership with St. Joseph’s University, Bancroft is piloting AI-powered robots to engage older adults with autism — with early promise for supporting staff and detecting changes in health.
Healthcare on Wheels: Cooper Mobile Clinic Arrives at Bancroft
Bringing care where it’s needed most, the new Cooper Mobile Clinic provides onsite health screenings, sick and well visits, and preventive care for individuals supported by Bancroft.
Exploring Autism and Aging: Seminar Series with Drexel
Through the Autism & Adulthood Seminar Series, Bancroft and the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute are bringing together leading experts to share insights on dementia, healthcare access, and healthy aging.
Leadership Spotlight
Dr. Karen Lindgren, Chief Clinical Officer
Dr. Lindgren leads Bancroft’s clinical strategy, advancing initiatives that integrate technology, research, and partnerships to improve health and well-being outcomes.
Partner With Us
We are looking for mission-driven partners who want to collaborate equally on supporting the autism and I/DD communities. The OneBancroft Collaborative for Community Health welcomes new partners in research, healthcare, and discovery.
Contact:
Dr. Karen Lindgren
Chief Clinical Officer
[email protected]
