1. Summer Camp
2. Autism Arts
3. Autism Works
4. Autistic Self-Advocacy Council - Nova Scotia (ASAC-NS)
5. Autistics Aloud
6. Information Programs
7. Summer Volunteer Program
8. Teen and Adult Social Programs
9. Volunteer Application Form
10. Program Brochure and Application Form

Autism Works

In summer 2009, the Provincial Autism Centre launched Autism Works, an exciting new supported employment program designed to support workplace success for individuals with autism and their employers. This program continues to support clients and employers to great mutual success.


Autism Works provides a specialized service and support to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders to move forward with their employment goals and careers. This program assists individuals by focusing on the soft skills (understanding social nuances, fitting in, flexibility, etc) that are assumed and undervalued in the workplace until they affect the workplace dynamics. The program also provides workplace education, which consists of on-site training and meetings with current employers and employees to educate them about autism.

The program’s goal is to provide clients with tools and guidance, as well as to work closely with employers in order to vastly advance opportunities for autistic clients to gain speedy, meaningful, realistic and, therefore, long-lasting employment.
 

In Their Own Words: Participants Describe the Benefits of the Autism Works Program

The most powerful testimonials to the success and long-term impact of Autism Works come from the participants who benefit from the program. The following are just a few of the many positive comments we have received:

“Without Alayna and the Autism Works program, I probably still would not be working. She helped me talk to employers and really explain to them my strengths and weaknesses. She made sure I had support to learn my job, as well as learning to communicate with staff and people coming into the store. I am glad I met her.”

“Wow, you’ve really opened up my eyes to looking at things differently. I am so glad we are working together to help make all my job dreams come true.”

“This program was really good. I liked my job and Alayna helped me to get it. She was very nice and my employer was nice.”


In conclusion . . .

Our success can be measured by statistics, and also by the lasting relationships we have formed with clients and community partners. Clients are coming out of this program with an increased ability to tackle employment and education opportunities, to the benefit of all involved. Programs of this nature provide a valuable service to clients and employers, and to the broader community.

We look forward to the opportunity to create stronger partnerships and assist even more people with autism in reaching their full potential. The Provincial Autism Centre is committed to continuously learning and growing as an agency in support of employment for people with autism.