Embracing Autism's Assets: Employment Support Resources for People with Autism

Autism affects 1 in 68 children in the United States. Autism affects the parts of the brain that control attention and judgment. Those who have autism often struggle with social situations, and communicating verbally and through body language can be challenging. The disorder typically appears before the age of 3, and is seen in boys more than girls.  

Although people with autism experience their environment differently from others, some employers are starting to embrace autism's assets. If you or someone you know has autism and receives Social Security disability benefits, resources are available to help you explore your job options.  In honor of Autism Awareness Month, the Ticket to Work program shares the following resources for those living with autism.  

• Larry Clay Success Story - Larry Clay, a Ticket to Work program participant (pictured above), was able to use his disability of autism to his advantage when looking for employment. His employer values his strong visual memory, and ability to find patterns and spot mistakes in data. Read his Success Story to see how coping with autism and finding meaningful employment can be possible.  

• Find Help Tool - The Find Help Tool on choosework.net can help you search for a service provider in your area that offers employment support for people with autism. Type in your zip code and click "Search." You can refine your search to browse service providers that may offer services for people with autism by selecting, "Developmental Disabilities" under "Disabilities" on the left-hand side of the page.

• Job accommodations - Job accommodations are changes made to a job or work place. These changes allow someone with a disability to do their job duties. Accommodations may include supports such as changes to work settings, or adjusted work schedules. Figuring out how to ask for accommodations? Use these accommodations ideas and resources from the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) for people with autism.

• Autism support organizations - There are also a number of groups that can help people with autism and their families find job support resources. Autism Now provides resources to people with autism and other developmental disabilities and their families. Find information on student transition planning for employment, vocational rehabilitation and more on their On the Job page. Ken's Krew helps people with autism and other developmental disabilities enter the world of work by providing access to good jobs, professional training and support to prepare for and sustain employment. Visit their program page here.

If you are a Social Security disability beneficiary age 18 through 64, the Ticket to Work program can connect you with free employment support services such as career counseling and job placement. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/work or call our Help Line to talk to someone about your situation: 1-866-968-7842 (V) or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY).