Nationally, 1 in 44 people are being diagnosed with Autism, but only 15 percent of those that are diagnosed are competitively employed. These numbers suggest a potential hiring epidemic if their talent is not recognized. Individuals with Autism have diverse work skills that are currently underutilized in the employment sector.
How often have people passed through the interview process only to quit or not perform as expected? Vista Adult Services knows that all people are employable and have created a model to best match the interests, abilities and skills of people with Autism to the needs of businesses. Those needs may include filling posted positions or it could include working together to identify ways an organization could become more effective overall by being more efficient, saving money, or scoring better audit results. By matching the right person to the job, businesses will experience less turnover and have individuals suited for the job. Additionally, individuals with Autism commonly value routine and, therefore, maintain a high attendance rate and often are not associated with common challenges a business faces such as drugs, interoffice dating, texting when to be working, etc.
While these individuals bring a variety of skills to their new positions, they typically require job coaches to ease their transition into the work place. Vista Adult Services helps the new employee acclimate to their new position while also supporting the business adapt to the learning style of the individual.
Some examples of positions individuals have filled are:
A file clerk position that was created for the finance and legal departments of the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts building to increase the efficiency of the staff. This person is able to scan, index and file documents.
A General Laborer position that was created at the distribution center at Pepsi Corporation to shell product with damaged packaging prior to reaching its expiration date enabling it to be sold or donated.
In time, these individuals will become more independent, and the job coaching will be phased out.
Employment is an essential part of living a fulfilling life. The feeling of contributing to society and creating social relationships with others provides each of us with higher self-esteem and self-worth. Vista Adult Services recognizes this is important for everyone, including individuals with Autism. Matching their unique skill sets to an appropriate job is a win for everyone.
For more information, please visit www.vistaadultservices.org
