Helping adults with autism in the job search
by Bob
If you read my most recent post, you know that Sue Russell (our VP of Community Engagement) has been helping a young man with autism hone his job interview skills. Elijah didn’t get that last job he interviewed for, but I’m happy to report that he hasn’t given up — he’ll be returning to Easter Seals Southeast Wisconsin for additional support.
At the same time, Sue has been working with a quiet young woman who has autism. This young woman also has a college degree and has been unable to get a job. Her educational focus and employment goals are to work in a library, but the local Division of Vocational Rehabilitation only suggests retail jobs for her.
This young woman’s communication skills are “hesitant.” She prefers a more structured and quiet working environment. Sue and our job developers immediately found an opening for an archivist position at one library, and a second position that might work at another library. They are working with this young woman to find a job she really wants. She says that for the first time, it feels like someone is really listening to her. She is finally excited about her job possibilities.
What do these stories tell us? Adults with autism may need help even if they have a college degree. It also reminds us of the untapped potential in our communities where skilled employees are still at a premium. Finally, it points out that a personalized approach is what it takes to find the right job for the right person. That’s the kind of individual approach we are building here in Southeast Wisconsin.