Mar 16, 2016
Structured employment programs provide meaningful work opportunities for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder through specialized support, visual communication tools, and predictable routines. Marcel's transformation from aggressive behaviors to productive employment at Entrust demonstrates how tailored autism support programs can unlock potential and create valuable contributions to organizations.
Marcel is a 20-year-old adult diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, a neurodevelopmental condition affecting communication and behavior. He first moved into an Entrust group home, a residential facility for individuals with developmental disabilities, in 2012.
Marcel initially displayed extreme physical and verbal aggression toward staff and peers. He often went AWOL, leaving the facility without permission. Over the years he has come a long way in behavior management, attitude adjustment, and lifestyle improvement with the help of his committed team of support workers.
Marcel has gradually adjusted to a structured residential environment with healthy behavioral boundaries. This adjustment occurred largely due to specialized communication strategies including visual cues, daily calendars, established routines, and positive reinforcement techniques commonly used in autism support programs.
Marcel now works once a week in a structured employment program specifically designed for individuals with developmental disabilities. His job involves laminating and cutting visual communication tools for support workers and clients to utilize as assistive communication devices.
Marcel enjoys predictable routine and responds well to environmental structure, both common needs for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Key elements of successful autism employment programs include:
Marcel has a designated work station equipped with 3 separate plastic bins clearly labelled "Start," "Work," and "Finish." This visual organization system helps keep Marcel on track with his assigned tasks. The bin system provides a clear and constant visual reminder of work expectations and the step-by-step process to follow during his work sessions.
Visual supports are essential for many individuals with autism because they:
Marcel's work has given him personal enjoyment and the opportunity to earn income through meaningful employment. His work output has been incredibly valuable for the organization's daily operations.
Behavioral specialists, mentors, assistant managers, and direct support staff all utilize the visual communication cues that Marcel laminates and cuts in his weekly work sessions. These visual communication tools are used on a daily basis by many verbal and nonverbal clients as primary means of augmentative and alternative communication throughout Entrust's programs.
Staff member Raj, as well as the entire Entrust organization, want to thank Marcel for all of his dedicated hard work. They recognize his contribution in helping the organization operate more efficiently through his consistent production of essential communication materials.
Marcel's success story demonstrates the potential of structured employment programs for adults with autism. When provided with appropriate supports, visual tools, and understanding staff, individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder can make meaningful contributions to their communities while gaining valuable work experience and income.
Published: [Current Date] | Last Updated: [Current Date]
Author: Entrust Disability Services Team
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*Please note as of 2024 our employment assistance services have been paused.
