Learn about training and wraparound employment support for individuals with autism.
Our Career Services provides both training and wraparound employment support for individuals with autism over the age of 14. Services are provided year-round and unlike traditional job placement services, the support is provided at no direct cost to the individual for as long as each individual requires support. The level and duration of supports vary based on each individual’s needs.
Our Career Specialists work one-on-one with each individual to determine what they want to do based on their own goals, dreams, and interests, and help them to achieve those goals. Our primary goal is to improve outcomes for individuals affected by autism who face challenges and barriers to meaningful employment with competitive wages.
Specific supports and services provided through this program include:
Community Based Work Evaluations (CBEs) to provide a person-centered, individualized and systematic process to determine viable vocational options, develop employment goals, determine skills gaps, and identify required accommodations at the workplace.
Work Experience. In combination with the CBE, the Career Specialist works with each individual to identify potential work experiences based by developing personal outcome measures and long-term goals.
Job Shadow Experiences are used to expose each individual to a variety of job settings based on both goals and skills gaps. ASI works with a variety of local businesses and organizations who are interested and willing to employ individuals with developmental disabilities, specifically autism.
Job Readiness Training is provided to prepare each individual served for the world of work. Training is customized to match the anticipated environment and expectations of each individual’s future employer. Specific topics covered may include: appropriate work behaviors, time management, interview skills, appropriate dress and grooming, communication skills, and basic computer skills.
On-The-Job Supports. Hourly on-the-job support services are provided to individuals placed in employment in order to stabilize the placement and enhance job retention. Such services include short-term job coaching for individuals who may not qualify for VR Supported Employment Services.
Currently, ASI provides Work and Career Readiness in the following counties: