-
The Cost of Literacy for Autistic Adults
Today, more than ever, literacy agencies nationwide are being called upon to assist adults with low literacy. Literacy Statistics “48 million adults lack basic reading, writing, and math skills beyond a third-grade level” (Literacy Facts, 2023). If every adult in the US functioned at...
-
Bridging the Gap: Advancing Research and Services for Autistic Adults
Several factors have led to a general improvement in the outcomes of children and adolescents as they become adults. Both earlier diagnosis and better treatments play important roles in this improved outcome, although it must also be noted that a minority of individuals remain significantly...
-
Creating Autism-Friendly Environments for Workplace Inclusivity
In an increasingly diverse and inclusive world, creating autism-friendly environments in the workplace is not just a noble endeavor but a practical necessity. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects millions of people worldwide, and many of them possess unique skills and perspectives that can be...
-
Tapping Into Strengths: Empowering Autistic Individuals to Self-Advocate in the Workplace
Up to 85% of autistic individuals with a college degree are unemployed or underemployed (Autism Society). This often is attributed to a variety of factors, including differences in communication and challenges in reading social cues and making eye contact, all of which are an integral part of the...
-
A Maze of Red Tape: My Experience with Benefits and Bureaucracy
Though I was diagnosed as autistic in my infancy and can remember as far back as when I was four years old, I never realized I was different until the second grade, when I was shuffled between special and regular education, when I made the fateful decision to become fully integrated into the...
-
Tips for Autistic Adults Navigating Full-Time Employment
Full-time employment is not something that is usually discussed in autism circles. When I was initially part-time, I had no idea how it looked at. All I knew was that I needed a full-time job to make a living, and it allowed others to pay for larger quality of life investments like homes or getting...
-
Creating Autism-Friendly Workplaces: Strategies for Inclusivity and Success
Creating autism-friendly environments in workplaces involves implementing strategies that accommodate the unique needs of autistic individuals, fostering inclusivity, and improving overall workplace productivity. Research and expert opinions emphasize the importance of clear communication,...
-
Navigating Career Pathways: Challenges and Opportunities for Autistic Individuals
It is, indeed, not easy for many people to make sense of the job market, but often, additional obstacles make autistic people’s lives much more challenging. With both finding a job and sustaining it, and at every level of the employment process, we face challenges which, unfortunately, may affect...
-
Innovative Recruitment Campaign Launched in NY State to Address Direct Support Professional Workforce Shortage
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provide crucial services for more than 125,000 New Yorkers with developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders, all across the state. The important roles that DSPs serve cannot be understated; I see it every day in my interactions and visits to...
-
Empowering Autistic Job Seekers Through Mentorship
When it comes to job search and employment, autistic adults may face specific challenges, including difficulties with social interactions, executive functioning, and communication. Additional obstacles include employer bias and a lack of understanding. These issues create significant barriers to...
