Lifelong Learning with Friends

Creating a Campus for All: Welcoming Adults with IDDs to the Roadrunner Family

Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) often encounter systemic barriers to higher education, social connection, and community involvement. Traditional academic settings have historically overlooked people with IDDs and lacked the resources to meet their learning needs, leading to isolation and limiting opportunities for personal growth. At the same time, most university students have limited interaction with the IDD population. Lifelong Learning with Friends addresses both sides of this divide by fostering welcoming, on-campus classrooms that empower adults with IDDs and offer students transformative learning experiences.

The program develops independence, communication skills, and social engagement for participants with IDDs, while preparing university students—especially future educators, healthcare professionals, and researchers—to become advocates for neurodiversity in their [professional] fields and society.

Program Origin and Description

Lifelong Learning with Friends (LLwF) is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2010 at the University of Texas at Austin by Dr. Jonathan Pierce, a UT neuroscience professor inspired by his son with Down syndrome. LLwF is dedicated to expanding continuing education opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs).

Through engaging, college-style courses held on university campuses, LLwF creates spaces where adults with IDDs and neurotypical university students learn together. Our mission is to foster mutual growth, challenge assumptions, and expand postsecondary opportunities for individuals with IDDs. In addition, we are also training the next generation of innovative educators, healthcare providers, and researchers through hands-on experience. LLwF is now growing beyond its Austin roots and bringing a continuing education option with an exciting expansion at UTSA.

First Fall Course

Course Title: Culture Chronicles: Music, Cinema, Cuisine, and Trends Around the World
Dates & Times: Wednesdays, October 22-December 3, 2025 | 6-8 PM
Location: UTSA Main Campus, Biosciences Building (BSB) 3.03.02 (Loeffler Room)
Instructor: Diya Datta
Description: In this engaging course, we'll explore the architecture, music, films, and food that define different countries. From the rhythms of Argentina's tango to the spices of India's kitchens, from France's cinematic masterpieces to the iconic landmarks of Egypt, each class will transport us to a new cultural destination. Through discussions, hands-on activities, and multimedia experiences, students will discover how global traditions shape the world we live in. Students will get "Passports" at the beginning of class and get "stamps" on them at the end of each class. The course will conclude with a surprise guest visit for an exciting firsthand cultural experience!

Volunteers

Volunteer Requirements

Volunteers must be current UTSA undergraduate or graduate students and commit to attending all sessions for the full course duration. Their role includes:

Participating actively in all activities and discussions
Providing one-on-one support to students with IDDs as needed
Maintaining a welcoming, respectful, and engaging classroom environment

This format ensures that adults with IDDs gain access to consistent and enriching educational experiences on campus—while university students develop empathy, leadership, and practical skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Other Ways to Get Involved

Instructor Recruitment: As our program expands, we are motivated to find both instructors and/or one-time guest speakers for our classes. Please contact us for more information.
Potential partnerships with student organizations

Volunteer Sign Up