44 Days of Autism Acceptance and Inclusion continues with a conversation with Katina Demetriou, Director of Adult Vocational Services, on the challenges adults with autism face in finding employment and social recreation. Working with individuals who are 18 and up, with transportation and referral from the Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities, they work to find jobs in local businesses or non-profits and pair it with opportunities for activities and making friends during free time. Clients are assisted on the job by a Direct Support Professional (DSP) who stays with them until they are prepared to perform on their own or a suitable work partner has stepped up. She spoke of the benefits to businesses hiring through POW&R – it is not charity, the business is getting a good, reliable employee.
We discussed the critical need for DSPs, without them Autism Delaware cannot place a client. When fully staffed she recruits jobs and businesses to participate in the program.
For more information visit AutismDealware.org