Quick Facts

list of quick facts about the redwood seed program

Rationale for Program

  • 66,000 college-age (18-26) individuals with intellectual disability (ID) in California
  • Poor employment outcomes for Californians with ID
    • 3% of adults with ID receive a living wage working side-by-side with typical peers
  • >90% of adults with ID live in poverty
  • Young adults with ID express largely same hopes and goals as their typically developing peers
  • UC Davis Redwood SEED Scholars Program is designed to improve these outcomes and serve as a model for other campuses in California
  • First of its kind in California

Program Basics

illustration of facts
  • Partnership between the UC Davis MIND Institute, UC Davis Office of Inclusive Excellence and UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education
  • 4-year program
  • Scholars earn a UC Davis Redwood SEED Scholars Integrated Studies Digital Credential approved by UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education
  • 12 students enrolled per year
  • Individualized and customized for each student
  • Combination of UC Davis credit-bearing courses and program-specific courses
  • Inclusive residential living: two years in the dorms, two years in apartments
  • Inclusion in UC Davis events, campus clubs, sports, organizations and faith communities as well as full participation in the larger Davis community
  • Internship and employment options at UC Davis, UC Davis Health, state government, local businesses and schools, and Fortune 500 companies
  • Supports for success
    • Undergraduate and graduate student peer mentors in five core areas: Academics, Employment, Health and Wellness, Independent Living, Social Inclusion
    • Person-Centered Planning Meetings twice a year
  • Davis faculty in inclusive practices and universal design
    • Training of housing staff, food service staff, police in inclusive practices

Program Funding

  • U.S. Department of Education, Model Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities Program (TPSID – CFDA 84.407A)
    • $2.1 million (total costs, 8% F&A, 2020-2025)
  • MIND Institute and Office of Inclusive Excellence in-kind - $100,000+
    • Philanthropy - $500,000 5-year pledge
    • Ongoing philanthropy and strategic development
  • Students work with the Department of Rehabilitation, Regional Centers and use Social Security to pay tuition, fees, room and board, technology and transportation