UC Santa Barbara START Program Helps Teens With Autism Build Social Skills

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) - The University of California, Santa Barbara’s START program is helping teens with autism strengthen social skills through peer mentors and structured group activities.

The 10-week summer program brings together autistic teens and trained college student mentors to practice everyday conversations, teamwork and relationship-building in a supportive environment. Activities are designed to help participants gain confidence while navigating real-life social situations.

Program leaders hope teens will build meaningful connections and develop skills they can carry into school, work and their communities. Families also receive guidance and resources to support social growth beyond the program.