Program offers employment for young adults on the autism spectrum

Genae Shields, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
·2 min read
Omari Williams is currently an intern at the Strong Museum of Play with the Strong Employment and Life Foundations (SELF) program. This program helps young adults on the autism spectrum prepare for employment and a life of independence.
Omari Williams is currently an intern at the Strong Museum of Play with the Strong Employment and Life Foundations (SELF) program. This program helps young adults on the autism spectrum prepare for employment and a life of independence.

Since 2017, the Arc of Monroe, Autism Up, Monroe One, and the Strong Museum of Play have collaborated on a workforce development program for young adults on the autism spectrum.

The Strong Employment and Life Foundations (SELF) program is an internship program with the mission to prepare young people on the Autism Spectrum for employment in the community. Interns in the program will gain transferable work skills, and opportunities to engage in classroom learning and business culture.

According to the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, the unemployment rate for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder is still a critical issue across America. Analysts from the New York State Department of Labor estimate the unemployment rate for individuals on the autism spectrum is 85%.

However, programs and organizations advocating for the employment of people on the autism spectrum continue to emerge throughout Monroe County.

Throughout the SELF program, interns work alongside other museum employees and can experience what it is like working with different teams. When they complete the internship, there is an evaluation process that helps them determine if they’re ready for full-time employment.

“This is just kind of that next little step to get to real life and what is to come. A little ease in the right direction of what real life is,” said special education teacher Christine Walker. Walker works alongside employment programs manager, Sean Beard, to help interns prepare for a life of independence.

All of the programs at Monroe One and Arc of Monroe allow the interns to move at their own pace. With the help of their families, the interns learn to build other life skills such as financial literacy, time management, and self-care.

Declan Handley-Byrne, a former SELF intern, began working in data entry and marketing. Through the program he has gained more confidence and financial literacy. Now, he works at the Strong Museum as a host and assists with repairs.

One of his favorite parts about working in the museum is being able to work on the pinball machines. “I’m working part-time at the best job I've ever had. And I would not be here if it wasn’t for SELF,” says Byrne.

Visit arcmonroe.org/self-at-strong to learn more.

Genae Shields is the business & development impact reporter. Reach out at gshields@gannett.com or on Instagram: @genaebriphoto for questions, comments, or concerns. Thank you for your continued support!

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Program offers employment for young adults on the autism spectrum