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Some workplaces may be hesitant to hire people with autism.<\/p>\n
Photo via Getty Images<\/p>\n
April marks World\u00a0Autism Acceptance Month (changed this past year from Autism Awareness Month). It is dedicated to promoting acceptance, understanding and support for individuals with autism and their families. It encourages communities to foster awareness and create inclusive environments for people on the autism spectrum. This is a time to reflect on the strides we\u2019ve made and the challenges that remain. In New York State alone, more than\u00a0342,250\u00a0individuals are on the autism spectrum. The news media reports on apparent statistical increases of people with autism (both in New York and other states).<\/p>\n
While the rising numbers often make headlines, much of the increase is due to advancements in medical research and diagnostic tools over the past two decades. We have come a long way in comprehending autism, but awareness alone is not enough.<\/p>\n
As a parent, my greatest wish is for my child to have every opportunity to thrive. My husband and I have poured our hearts into preparing our son for success, ensuring he has the tools to embrace his full potential. Yet, time and again, we watch as doors close\u2014not because of his ability, but because of stigma. The world sees limitations instead of possibilities. It\u2019s heartbreaking to witness talented, hardworking individuals like my son be judged unfairly, simply because of preconceived notions about autism.<\/p>\n
The struggle for acceptance is not new. In 1972, character movie actor\u00a0Lloyd courageously\u00a0spoke out about his son, one of the first to be diagnosed with autism. Back then, institutionalization was the norm, and few had even heard of the condition. There was very little that could be done for someone with autism at that time, other than to isolate them and try as best as possible to keep them comfortable.<\/p>\n
Thankfully, science, medicine and education have evolved exceedingly since then. Today, organizations like\u00a0Life\u2019s WORC<\/a>\u00a0and the Family Center for <\/a>Achievement<\/a>\u00a0provide life-changing resources, therapies and support systems that help individuals with autism lead fulfilling lives. A field of professionals specializing in autism has emerged helping to drive innovation.<\/p>\n Despite this progress, there is a crisis that demands immediate attention:\u00a0employment.\u00a0Nearly\u00a085%<\/strong>\u00a0of individuals on the autism spectrum are either unemployed or underemployed. Many of them are qualified, eager and more than capable of contributing\u2014but misconceptions prevent them from being given a chance. Employers hesitate, fearing that autistic employees will struggle with workplace interactions or productivity. Some worry about increased insurance costs or more government regulations, assumptions that are often\u00a0untrue. Others are concerned about making accommodations or managing social dynamics. These fears stem from misunderstanding rather than reality.<\/p>\n People with autism may approach communication differently\u2014struggling with eye contact or traditional conversation norms\u2014but that does not mean they lack the skills to excel. Unfortunately, hiring managers often view these differences as\u00a0dealbreakers, dismissing perfectly capable candidates before they\u2019ve had a chance to prove themselves.<\/p>\n This is where\u00a0Life\u2019s WORC\/the Family Center for Achievement\u00a0is able to make a difference. Their approach is\u00a0threefold:<\/p>\n 1. Engaging employers\u2014convincing them to recognize the value autistic individuals bring to the workforce.<\/p>\n 2. Providing specialized training\u2014ensuring candidates are prepared and equipped to succeed.<\/p>\n 3. Matching skills to job functions\u2014so each individual is placed where their talents shine, minimizing the risk of failure.<\/p>\n