In 2004, Ali Kaufman founded Space of Mind as a modern schoolhouse and educational services company that celebrates individuality and prepares students for real life. But over the next two decades, she saw a perfect storm emerging for young adults. Many were reaching adulthood without the practical experience, confidence, community support, or executive functioning skills needed for independent life. At the same time, increasing social isolation, mental health challenges, educational disengagement, and fewer opportunities to develop real-world life skills were disrupting adolescence.

Kaufman also recognized a gap in support after high school, when many young adults—particularly those with neurodivergence—aren’t yet ready for independent living, college, or employment. She created Launch Pad and Mind the Gap to help this cohort navigate life’s major transitions through coaching, community, learning, and real-world experiences.

“Launch Pad combines residential living in downtown Delray Beach with individualized coaching, community engagement, life-skills development, vocational exploration, and real-world practice,” says Kaufman. “Residents live within a supportive community while participating in structured programming designed to help them build competence across multiple dimensions of adulthood. … Mind the Gap, the day program that complements Launch Pad, offers personalized coaching, workforce training, learning support, and job search/career placement assistance to help participants find their passion and turn it into a purposeful career.”

Designed for young adults 18 and older, these programs are not intended to “fix” participants, as Kaufman explains, but rather designed to help them develop the tools, experiences, and self-understanding needed to create meaningful and sustainable adult lives. (spaceofmindcoaching.com) —L.G.S.

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