# 'Agricultural specialisterne': rural employment revolution for those with Autism **URL:** \ **Category:** Lounge\ **Created:** [June 5, 2011, 5:40am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615 "2011-06-05T05:40:07Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 5
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 13, 2012, 11:47am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/81 "2012-02-13T11:47:18Z")
In early 2011, Temple Grandin was the keynote speaker at the “Autism and Employment” forum - the 2012 event is being scheduled for October at 3M. One of the cofounding sponsors of the conference, Best Buy, has launched an e-learning tool on scenarios that help educate and advocate for those with Autism Spectrum Disorders already in the workplace to sustain employment. The e-learning website aims to help workers develop social skills and better read facial expressions and nonverbal language. (source: [http://www.ausm.org/waysToHelp/documents/Annual%20Fund%20Letter2011online.pdf](http://www.ausm.org/waysToHelp/documents/Annual%20Fund%20Letter2011online.pdf)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 14, 2012, 3:18pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/82 "2012-02-14T15:18:07Z")
More on Best Buy and Corporate Social Responsibility 🙂… > [@](#): > > …Phil… is every retail store manager’s dream. > He is a reliable and witty 18-year-old who is blessed with a keen sense of humor. > On Saturday mornings, he engrosses himself in up to a dozen computers at a time as part of a work-study program, making sure Best Buy customers have ready-to-use products, often configured to their personal needs and updated with the latest antivirus software. > “It’s amazing to see what he can do, and I’m learning new things all the time,” Geek Squad Agent Eric Nelson said. “I’ve seen things he can do that I never knew he could or expect him to do; like he works on all sorts of electronics.” > One reason Nelson didn’t know what to expect is because [Phil] is autistic. > Bob [Phil’s father] said his son’s “language is pretty impaired” and “he will answer questions, but it takes a different kind if initiation.” > Nelson said he was nervous about working with an autistic student, but starting in August he opened his mind to what Phil… was capable of doing. At first, Nelson had to guide his newest trainee step by step and [Phil] would rarely make eye contact with him. > But somewhere along the way, their relationship became less about [Phil’s] autism and more about two high-tech buffs enjoying each other’s company from 7 to 10 a.m. one day a week. > Now they share a playful back-and-forth with each other once in a while, with [Phil] teasing that he’s going to put a different antivirus software on the computer than he was instructed to do. > “Just being able to connect with him really gives me a glimpse into the things he enjoys and what makes him happy,” Nelson said. > That type of interaction is also what makes Bob’s … heart joyful. > He’s excited to see his son installing mobile broadband cards and helping out with wireless network solutions, but Phil’s … experience at “his favorite store” is also about opportunity and independence. > > …“I think for a company the size of Best Buy to have the willingness to take a chance and think outside the box like this says a lot about them,” he said. > He also credits Nelson for being one of the few people who “really gets Phil” and he said it’s been a joy to see the intuition he uses when communicating with him. (source: [Job at Best Buy provides new opportunities for autistic student Phil Woodard | MLive.com](http://www.mlive.com/news/jackson/index.ssf/2010/12/post_52.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 15, 2012, 4:14pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/83 "2012-02-15T16:14:06Z")
Here is a video showing another Best Buy employee success story - this time Ryan who has Asperger’s Syndrome: [The Ryan Hemphill Best Buy Story - YouTube](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-sVj4Ja-tM) Here is some of the transcript of the video: > [@](#): > > …Ryan: I got the job. > > Roberta: And he was absolutely thrilled. It was a dream job for him definitely. From the time he first started working there he was so excited every night when he came home from work. > > Voiceover: Ryan works on the operations team. He is a customer specialist. He’s excited, always has a smile on his face when he is here. When his shift is over, he will always walk up to the manager on duty or the sales leader and say “What else can I do”. > > John Pershing: I think someone with autism, or someone with Asperger’s, needs an environment like that to continue to flourish themselves. > > Jim: This opportunity just being able to work with Best Buy is such a blessing. For both him and for us as a family I think. > > …Roberta: Working with the public has been really, really good for him. It’s just made him much more socially aware. > > John: For him to be able to get a job and be able to do the things he needs to be able to do… eventually be independent… a lot of that was just his own perseverance. > > …Chris: He’s always eager to help, so in terms of work ethic, phenomenal. If there is a customer he sees out on the floor that is going unserved, Ryan sprints to that customer to make sure that they’re getting taken care of. If I had a hundred Ryans, it would be wonderful. > > Dr. Barbara Luskin: Motivation is tremendously important, it’s important for all of us, but one of the things I’ve learned about the people I know with autism is that they want something. They will move heaven and earth to make it happen. > > Ryan: Originally my parents kept bugging me to get a car. They were getting tired of carting me around from point A to point B. > > Chris: He was so excited about getting that new car. I think about Ryan and his family and the ability for him to have his own income, and for him to make payments on his own car, his ability to feel empowered. Ryan could have easily thought, oh, I’m going to be a cashier, that’s not that big of a deal. He walked into this building thinking, I’ve got a job at Best Buy. I’m doing my dream job. > > Roberta: Once Ryan makes up his mind to do something, there is not a lot you can do to hold him back. He really is very determined. I’d say that’s the quality that most defines him. > > John: What I’m really proud of working with an organization like Best Buy is that we strive everyday to realize the uniqueness in the individual and we have 150,000 individuals who bring life journeys, and life stories, and life experiences of who they are, to what we do every single day. > > Roberta: I think for autism spectrum kids, Best Buy is a really great place, because they do tend to really love electronics. From the time he was really little he always loved going into Best Buy. I’m really impressed that the corporate philosophy is obviously focusing on abilities rather than disabilities. It’s neat to see that lived out, and it certainly is in Ryan’s case. Ryan is right at home. (source: [News Coverage of Autism as an Asset in Employment](http://www.mnddc.org/asd-employment/3c-media-coverage.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 16, 2012, 2:54pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/84 "2012-02-16T14:54:47Z")
Inspired by Walgreens’ Anderson, South Carolina distribution center (DC) (see ['Agricultural specialisterne': rural employment revolution for those with Autism - #8 by Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/8)), Best Buy has done a similar thing with its new Shepherdsville, Kentucky DC: [Shepherdsville Distribution Center Story - YouTube](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJKtzZ_g0YE) > [@](#): > > There is something special about the operations of the new Best Buy distribution center in the Cedar Grove Business Park. > > …Of the 200 employees planned for the facility, each will possess their own special abilities. Pam Smyth, director of the center, said Best Buy wanted to be able to have a facility that would bring out the special abilities in all their workers, even those who might have a few challenges. > > …[Willie Byrd of Options Unlimited, a non-profit org which provides help and jobs to the challenged] said this should let other distribution companies in the community know that those with special challenges can perform in the workforce and provide valuable employees. “They work hard and they show up to work,” said Byrd. “Plus, it’s hard for other employees to complain when they see the challenges their co-workers overcome on a daily basis and do their jobs without complaining.” > > …“Best Buy truly sees the value in a diversified workforce,” said Byrd. “Our people work hard and they can do the job. It is a wonderful arrangement for all parties.” He hopes that this success would allow Options Unlimited to expand some to help train others for job skills. More importantly, Byrd said he hopes that this dispels some of the stereotypes that those with special needs can’t function. > “They can work and they can be a valuable part of our community,” said Byrd. > When employees are hired, Smyth said everyone is expected to perform the same task at the same ability level. There is no quota and there is no guarantee that anyone would receive a job. > In each of the departments, she said there is someone who may have a disability. But the key is spending time with each person to see what special skills they have and how to best utilize those skills. “It is good business to hire the best people and we do,” said [Jerianne Swierzewski, vice president of logistics operations for Best Buy.] > Shae McGahey, logistics human resources manager, said it is appropriate to have a celebration for a group of employees who like to celebrate. She said the wonderful team focuses on the strengths of each employee to make the company better. “Our team is the center of our success,” said McGahey. “You are the reason we are as successful as we are.” (source: [Options Unlimted, Inc. - History](http://www.optionsunlimitedinc.org/BestBuyArticle.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 18, 2012, 8:03pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/85 "2012-02-18T20:03:08Z")
In early 2011, Temple Grandin was the keynote speaker at the “Autism and Employment” forum - the 2012 event is being scheduled for October at 3M. Another of the cofounding sponsors of the conference was Cargill. At the conference, Bill Buckner, senior vice president of Cargill’s animal-nutrition division, unveiled a pilot program for autistic students in high school. Buckner said: > [@](#): > > …“We are increasing the awareness and the employment opportunities for people with (mild autism) and other disabilities”… (source: [Temple Grandin urges companies to hire autistic workers - East Valley Tribune: Business](http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/business/article_ef7f5a8c-4433-11e0-b2b5-001cc4c03286.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 20, 2012, 5:59am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/86 "2012-02-20T05:59:37Z")
Indeed Temple Grandin is involved in various Autism-related conferences, not just those related to employment. For an example of her busy schedule and the way she generously gives her time away 🙂, see the following from mid-2010: > [@](#): > > Dr. Temple Grandin… will be making a swing through Wichita [Kansas] on August 5-6 to speak with Cargill employees about animal welfare, participate in a public book-signing, be the keynote speaker at an autism conference and meet with representatives of the _Lose The Training Wheels_ organization for youth with disabilities… > …On May 16, 2010, she received an honorary doctorate degree of humane letters from Duke University in Durham, N.C. > …Thurs., Aug. 5, 2010, Grandin will participate in a book signing at Barnes & Noble Booksellers… “We’re extremely pleased to host Dr. Grandin’s Wichita book signing event, which will be part of a Bookfair Fundraiser to benefit Heartspring, an internationally known center for children with special needs. If you mention your affiliation with the Heartspring Bookfair, a percentage of your purchase at the Bradley Fair Barnes & Noble that day, including those made during Dr. Grandin’s book signing, will be donated to Heartspring,” stated Brad Purkey, Barnes & Noble community relations manager. “It’s an honor to have Dr. Grandin with us, and we hope to generate a significant donation for Heartspring as a result. We’ll also have a supply of Dr. Grandin’s books available for anyone who wishes to purchase them for the book signing.” > While in Wichita, Grandin will also be the keynote speaker at a Sensory Challenges conference for Future Horizons at the downtown Hyatt hotel, August 6, 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., as well as meeting briefly with representatives of _Lose The Training Wheels_ during her visit. For more information about the conference, visit [Sensory World - Future Horizons, Inc. - Home](http://www.sensoryworld.com). (source: [Cargill: News - Animal Welfare and Autism Expert Dr. Temple Grandin to Visit Wichita](http://www.cargill.com/news/releases/2010/NA3031269.jsp)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 21, 2012, 2:38am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/87 "2012-02-21T02:38:56Z")
Along with Temple Grandin, Kate Duffy is the co-author of the book, _Developing Talents - Careers for Individuals with Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism_. Right about now, the two are co-presenting a seminar in Toronto, Canada on this same topic… > [@](#): > > …In the afternoon, Kate Duffy … will present strategies to help prepare young people with special needs for success in the workplace, whether they are employed by someone or choose to be entrepreneurs. With commentary from Dr. Grandin, Kate will focus on methods to identify and cultivate talents and interests that might lead to satisfying work or a viable small business as well as practical career planning and job search techniques. > > This workshop will be relevant for guidance counsellors, social workers, psychologists, therapists, psychiatrists, teachers and educational support workers from secondary to tertiary levels, employers, program leaders and developers, policy makers, and human resource professionals. > > Meaningful work guarantees a return on the public investments that pay for the support services offered in our public schools and community programs. This presentation will lay the groundwork for a future in which more individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome and [High Functioning Autism] have a better chance to fully realize their talents… (source: [Developing Talents: Achieving Meaningful Careers for Young Adults with Asperger’s Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism - with Temple Grandin](http://leadingedgeseminars.org/seminars/developing-talents-achieving-meaningful-careers-for-young-adults-with-aspergers-syndrome-and-high-functioning-autism.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 21, 2012, 11:01pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/88 "2012-02-21T23:01:13Z")
The Geneva Centre for Autism, co-sponsored the workshop mentioned in the above post. The Centre is Canada’s largest autism service organisation and an international leader in the field of autism education and training: > [@](#): > > … **Accolades and Accomplishments** > > - 35 years serving the Greater Toronto community > - 4,200 Toronto area families supported > - Child, teen, young adult, family clinical services, support groups and training > - 120,000 respite hours provided to Ontario families each year > - Ontario’s designated autism training resource > - Host of the world’s pre-eminent autism symposium > - Canada’s most extensive autism resource library > - 220 full and part-time staff > - 300 plus volunteer team > - 80 student placements every year > - 1.25 million website visits annually > - Host of [RespiteServices.com](http://RespiteServices.com) > - 10,000 Teachers’ Assistants and 1,200 child care professionals trained and supported to create inclusive Ontario classrooms > - Summer Institute trains 1,500 educational professionals each year. (source: [http://ckc.tcf.ca/org/geneva-centre-autism](http://ckc.tcf.ca/org/geneva-centre-autism)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 22, 2012, 9:00pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/89 "2012-02-22T21:00:55Z")
Kate Duffy was Temple Grandin’s co-author for the book _Developing Talents: Careers for Individuals with Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism_. Duffy, along with Tom Thirlkel, runs _The Developing Talents Project_. This Project uses the ideas in the book to help young people with Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome figure out their talents, strengthen their communication skills and prepare for the transition to work. Kate Duffy also has taught small business for a number of years through the First Step Fund, a micro-business training organization. Microenterprises are businesses that have five or fewer employees. A person with an Autism Spectrum Disorder is often ideally suited to working on their own, and many microenterprises consist of a sole trader situation. That way, despite the challenges involved, a person on the Autism Spectrum can gain control of their life. Here is a set of slides for a presentation Kate Duffy was involved in on [Entrepreneurship or Self-Employment as a Viable Option for Individuals with Disabilities](http://kcart.ku.edu/~kcart/events/beyond_diagnosis_2011/presentations/Duffy%20KCART%202011.pdf) (sources: [Developing Talents Project](http://www.developingtalents.com/index.html); [About Us](http://www.developingtalents.com/page1/page1.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 23, 2012, 6:28pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/90 "2012-02-23T18:28:04Z")
An example of successful small business ownership, written by Kate Duffy is quoted below. Note the similarity to Griffin Hammis’ Customized Employment approach: [Specialisterne: leveraging the unique skills of Autistics at competitive market terms - #65 by Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/specialisterne-leveraging-the-unique-skills-of-autistics-at-competitive-market-terms/50245/65). Here the non-verbal Joe got help from his parents, while his strengths are being utilised by making sure that he is in a business that he is truly passionate about… > [@](#): > > A couple of weekends ago, I visited Poppin Joe’s Kettle Corn at the Overland Park Farmer’s Market, a prime example of small business ownership being the way to go for people on the spectrum. > > Now an entrepreneur, Joe … who has autism and is nonverbal, was encouraged by his school district to live in a group home and work in a sheltered workshop. However, Joe is now thriving, making popcorn at Poppin’ Joe’s. > > …With his parents Ray and Janet, Joe started his kettle corn business several years ago. Since then, the business has received a lot of publicity, both locally and nationally, for Joe has both Down’s Syndrome and autism - and there he is working his business and living in his own house in Louisburg, KS. > > Joe didn’t just land in this business, though. His parents learned how to write a business plan through Kansas City’s First Step Fund, a business training program that works with individuals with disabilities and those with low to moderate income. **They built the business, piece by piece, with the help from Vocational Rehabilitation, Social Security Administration and other government programs that support employment for people with disabilities.** > > **The parents are slowly trying to move out of the business by hiring a manager to help Joe, who is nonverbal, run his business.** Since starting the business, Ray and Janet have seen a lot of growth in their son. Even though he is nonverbal, Joe still can sell his popcorn to customers as well as make the popcorn at the family’s farm just outside Louisburg. > **Joe is successful at his business because of his parents’ hard work, but also because they carefully helped Joe pick a business that he would love. That may sound odd, but for people with autism who tend to fixate on subjects, having the right occupation is critical. They tried a couple of other businesses with Joe, but this is the one that Joe fell in love with.** > > …Ask your school to offer small business education because it could be just the thing your son or daughter needs to grow into independence. (source: [Poppin Joe’s](http://www.developingtalents.com/page7/page19/page19.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 25, 2012, 9:36pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/91 "2012-02-25T21:36:13Z")
Indeed, proper governmental supports are often available, if one knows where to look, for people with disabilities to succeed in self-employment. Here is an example of supports utilised in a Customized Employment\* situation, the approach favoured by Griffin Hammis Associates: > [@](#): > > …Kevin spent many years in a sheltered workshop where his developmental disability and his reputation for combative behavior were used as justifications for restricting his access to community employment. Kevin was enrolled in a state Developmental Disability Council funded project focused on community employment for individuals with challenging behaviors. Kevin’s interest in being a mechanic became obvious, but no jobs were available for a young man without experience. After many attempts, a local small engine repair shop agreed to have Kevin disassemble and clean a few motors every week. Because the single-owner did not want employees, a business-within-a-business was created that involved Kevin doing disassembly and parts cleaning. In return for the space to operate this complimentary service, and for mentoring in mechanics from the host business owner, Kevin paid a small percentage of his earnings to the shop. **[Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)] support, general fund expenditures from the local [Developmental Disabilities (DD)] agency, and a [Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS)] through [Social Security Administration (SSA)] provided Kevin with hand tools, work benches, a part washer, and work clothes.** Today, over 7 years later, Kevin works 20 to 30 hours a week and charges approximately $30 per hour for his services. \*Customised Employment is where the relationship between employer and employee is negotiated and personalised in a way that meets the needs of both. It is a great way for those with disabilities to obtain and retain employment. (source: [http://www.onestops.info/pdf/SelfemploymentCE1.pdf](http://www.onestops.info/pdf/SelfemploymentCE1.pdf)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 27, 2012, 2:30am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/92 "2012-02-27T02:30:07Z")
It is a great incentive for people with disabilities, of course, to continue to be eligible for benefits as they enter the workforce.🙂 Plans for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) were developed as an incentive to enter the workforce to encourage individuals who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Supplemental Security Disability Income (SSDI). The point of this plan is that it allows an individual to work and save money without being penalised with a deduction from their SSI or SSDI check. There are restrictions though on how the saved money can be used. Molly Sullivan of Griffin Hammis Associates is an expert on the matter; here is a presentation of hers on Plans for Achieving Self-Support: [START UP | Self-Employment Technical Assistance, Resources, & Training](http://www.start-up-usa.biz/training/online_seminars/sullivan_pass/sullivan_pass_ho.pdf) (source: [ICI - Postsecondary Education Options for Students with Intellectual Disabilities](http://www.communityinclusion.org/article.php?article_id=178)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2012, 7:22am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/93 "2012-02-28T07:22:26Z")
A paper from staff at Griffin Hammis Associates makes the point that Plans for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) are vastly underutilised. PASS plans offer opportunities, for people with disabilties, via consumer-controlled money to: - go into employment; - earn a post-high school qualification to enhance employability; - acquire specialised skills; - buy job development and coaching services; and/or - cover transit costs. The paper also offers an example where a PASS was successfully utilised: > [@](#): > > …Steven, a young man on the autism spectrum transitioning from high school, was on a track for referral to a local day activity center. In the last year of high school his family became aware of Customized Employment (CE) options and reached out for assistance for community employment. > > …The local Small Business Development Center assisted when the business idea was initially proposed and continues to provide technical assistance. Funding was amalgamated from multiple sources, including 6 months of final transition School Staff funding, Medicaid waiver self-directed community day services funding, State Vocational Rehabilitation CE services and business equipment funding, a local small community business development grant, plus a **$9,000 PASS was developed and approved for supporting business operating expenses, materials, supplies, web site development and ongoing internet access fees. PASS, by default, is mainly building operating capital in the business each month, and by the end of 18 months will have provided $9,000 in operating capital, while simultaneously paying for business operating expenses** … (source: [http://www.employmentfirstgeorgia.org/getmedia/8b4655bb-89ab-49e0-8a39-3b8519e618e1/Plans-for-Achieving-Self-2012-cg.aspx](http://www.employmentfirstgeorgia.org/getmedia/8b4655bb-89ab-49e0-8a39-3b8519e618e1/Plans-for-Achieving-Self-2012-cg.aspx)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 28, 2012, 11:46pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/94 "2012-02-28T23:46:52Z")
On a very different note, I will now focus on an athlete with Autism. And this is very pertinent for those of us in the Southern Hemisphere, today being the last day of Summer 😉 We have seen in this thread that nature can bring out the best in people on the Autism Spectrum, and for Clay Marzo the waves and surfing are what he lives for… Here is a full version of the documentary (‘Just Add Water’) from a few years ago on Clay Marzo, a Hawaii-raised professional surfer with Asperger’s Syndrome: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-F6uB4xt8o](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-F6uB4xt8o) Notice how one of the surfers comments that he seems much more comfortable in the water, in terms of interacting with others and even eye contact, than on land… ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [February 29, 2012, 10:40pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/95 "2012-02-29T22:40:24Z")
From the Clay Marzo film, ‘Just Add Water’, pasted in below are insights from two Autism experts. Note that the ideas described do not just apply specifically to Clay Marzo and Surfing. They could as easily apply to some of the Autistics clearly excelling in other fields, utilising their obsessiveness in one area of interest to succeed… > [@](#): > > …Dr. Tony Attwood (Asperger’s Syndrome Expert): > The best description is that the brain is wired differently. It means that some things are processed so superbly that the person has areas of excellence. There’s a tendency in Asperger’s Syndrome to have, what we call, a special interest. What it means is that when the person with Asperger’s Syndrome chooses to do something, they will become an expert at it, probably the best in the world at it. > > Dr. Chitra Bhakta (Autism Specialist): That one activity or one sphere of excellence that they have that they can devote I think exceptionally long hours in concentration that I don’t think a typical person could bring to it. > > Dr. Tony Attwood (Asperger’s Syndrome Expert): > But when they become so dedicated and they let their mind really focus on aspects and connections that noone else has thought of, so it becomes intuitive, that’s when they excel. > … > Dr. Chitra Bhakta (Autism Specialist): You can see the passion that he feels for doing what he’s doing. I think it’s somehow he comes across, he’s so passionate about it, it’s almost like what he’s living for. > > Dr. Tony Attwood (Asperger’s Syndrome Expert): > What he’ll do is have a schema of many waves that he’s had before and then be able to predict what he’ll do in that situation. So his brain disconnects from everyday functions and just becomes one with the wave. And so he’ll intuitively know what the wave is doing and so he will anticipate that and be ahead of everyone else… (source: [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-F6uB4xt8o](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-F6uB4xt8o)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [March 2, 2012, 5:32pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/96 "2012-03-02T17:32:08Z")
We have seen in this thread that nature can bring out the best in people on the Autism Spectrum, and that goes for Clay Marzo too. As a professional surfer, he excels on the water, rather than on a rural environment. Clay Marzo also helps regularly out at Surfers Healing, an organisation dedicated to using the surfing experience as a therapeutic tool to help Autistic children… > [@](#): > > …Several professional surfers have been very supportive of the program. It’s not uncommon to see pros like Sunny Garcia, Danny Fuller, or Clay Marzo, one of the most accomplished surfers and aquatic athletes in the world today. > > Coincidentally, after years of surfing, Marzo himself was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism, in 2007 at the age 18… Here is a clip from ‘Just Add Water’ on this organisation: [Surfers Healing - Clay Marzo - YouTube](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DEBZWjrPdg) (source: [Liquid [Hip]: Surfers Healing Opens Up For Autism](http://www.liquidhip.com/2011/06/surfers-healing-opens-up-for-autism.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [March 4, 2012, 4:44pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/97 "2012-03-04T16:44:06Z")
This thread has been about how the outdoors can bring the best out of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders and be therapeutic for them. Below is more on how the organisation, _Surfer’s Healing_, operates. Note the similarity to how the water seems to affect Clay Marzo. Like many successful interventions for Autism, time in the water consistently calms and soothes the children down… > [@](#): > > …Today, Surfers Healing travels the country to bring the surfing experience to autistic children. Typically, the full-day camp includes an afternoon of music, comedy, and art produced by children who have varied degrees of autism. > > But it’s the main event that has so many families turning out to participate – sometimes as many as 500 children for only 100 spots (which are reserved in advance). Amazingly, even among those who are initially frightened by the unfamiliarity of the boards, they calm down almost immediately as they enter the water. > > …“I truly believe the water is the element that soothes,” [Izzy Paskowitz, founder of the organisation] has said. “Water, any water, makes a difference.” > > And for the rest of the day, they take turns riding the waves with experienced and sometimes well-known professional surfers, all of whom volunteer their time. In some cases, older children even learn enough to surf a small distance on their own. > > …Since its first event, Surfers Healing has grown to touch the lives of more than 2,000 children and their families who participate at special camps all over the world …Surfers Healing has future camps planned …with first-time campers being given priority enrollment. > > In prior years, the camps were also open to brothers and sisters, but growing demand had made it more difficult to accommodate more children on a shoestring budget. Expenses to host the camps typically include beach permits, insurance, administration, and food for the families. Surfers Healing also purchases new wetsuits, surfboards, rash guards, life vests, and other equipment every season. > > …Even today, despite demands, Surfers Healing asks most donors to sponsor children, thereby reducing the cost of the camp and also helping the nonprofit to expand by offering more camps throughout the year. > > Inventive sponsors have even sponsored bake sales, car washes, and barbecues, a few of several dozen grassroots ways that people have helped fund the organization. Surfers Healing also manages an online store with T-shirts and charm bracelets to help raise funds and maintains a Facebook page, helping to increase awareness for autism. (source: [Liquid [Hip]: Surfers Healing Opens Up For Autism](http://www.liquidhip.com/2011/06/surfers-healing-opens-up-for-autism.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [March 6, 2012, 6:03am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/98 "2012-03-06T06:03:13Z")
In the above post on _Surfer’s Healing_, the quoted article includes the following passage: > [@](#): > > …In other cases, they might only have short ride but as Tim Haddock recently shared with ESPN, his son had fun anyway. And Haddock’s son is not alone, as evidenced by the growing number of personal videos about Surfers Healing online… Indeed, a place like YouTube is good for raising awareness for successful interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders. While not as scientific as a formal clinical trial, seeing how various kids with Autism react to interventions in real life can give one an insight into an intervention’s relative merits, and whether it is worth a try. Here are just some of the many YouTube videos on _Surfer’s Healing_ for example: [![](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex016/uploads/pheromonetalk/original/2X/d/dd3276733ee0ac12885a8a2b3898296d3b4fc3c3.jpeg "Eye To Eye With Katie Couric: Surfer's Healing (CBS News)") ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82-W4CbAFXY) https://www.youtube.com/embed/F0ynSnLAc4M?feature=oembed&wmode=opaque [![](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex016/uploads/pheromonetalk/original/2X/a/a3019cbede18bf117f7525ada9bc41866d6c455c.jpeg "Paul surfing in Montauk with Surfers Healing") ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3PEICyRG4w) https://www.youtube.com/embed/eBTWNLc_eYs?feature=oembed&wmode=opaque [![](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex016/uploads/pheromonetalk/original/2X/4/43b2012a289f760a5ac8d2e77ac401a0b7c67eb2.jpeg "Surfers Healing Wightsville Beach 2010") ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNbvXqAX3I0) (source: [Liquid [Hip]: Surfers Healing Opens Up For Autism](http://www.liquidhip.com/2011/06/surfers-healing-opens-up-for-autism.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [March 7, 2012, 4:20am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/99 "2012-03-07T04:20:08Z")
This thread has been about how the outdoors can bring the best out of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders and be therapeutic for them. While _Surfer’s Healing_ is an organisation that focuses on bringing the surfing experience to kids with Autism, _AmpSurf_ widens the net to include adults and various other disabilities… > [@](#): > > …It wasn’t long before [Dana] was conspiring with his surf teacher–Rodney … another amputee–to launch a surf clinic for other people with disabilities. > “We did that first clinic in October of '03, and AmpSurf was born,” [Dana] said. > The goal of the nonprofit AmpSurf was simple: Show disabled people the therapeutic benefits of surfing by teaching them to ride waves. > While many AmpSurf participants are veterans, anyone with disabilities can participate. That has included people with missing limbs, brain injuries, blindness, autism and post-traumatic stress disorder. > The first year, AmpSurf taught a dozen people. This year, with clinics in Southern California and on the East Coast, AmpSurf will teach 500… (source: [Veterans’ champion: Co-founder of AmpSurf widening his impact | The Tribune & SanLuisObispo.com](http://www.sanluisobispo.com/2011/10/08/1789185/veterans-champion-co-founder-of.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [March 8, 2012, 2:23am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/100 "2012-03-08T02:23:16Z")
Indeed here is the inspiring story of the founder of _AmpSurf_, and how therapeutic surfing helped him to be something other than ‘that poor guy who lost his leg’… > [@](#): > > Dana … is aware of the irony. > After serving two tours of combat duty in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, the former Marine lost a leg as a civilian in California. > > “A lot of people ask, ‘Did you lose your leg in the service?’” he said. “And I say, ‘No–I lost it right here, on the 101.’” > > While the car accident forever disabled him, it positively changed his life. Since that 2002 incident, [Dana] has taken up surfing, launched a camp to teach other disabled people to surf, accepted a job as the county’s Veterans Services officer and appeared in a major motion picture. > “Honestly, looking back, everything happens for a reason,” said [Dana]… > > …So surgeons had to amputate. > Despite experiencing the worst pain he’d ever felt (it didn’t help that his insurance company denied him rehabilitation), [Dana] made it his goal to take up surfing as soon as he could. > “I didn’t want to be defined by the fact that I’ve got a missing leg,” said the 41-year-old father of five. “And I thought, if I can surf, then I won’t be this poor guy that lost his leg.” > > …After losing his leg in August, Cummings was carrying a surfboard the following January, a prosthetic limb attached below his left knee. Like most beginning surfers, Cummings rode his first few waves on his belly. But that was enough to experience what jubilant surfers refer to as ‘the stoke.’ > “To feel that rush of the wave pick me up–I was just blown away,” said Cummings, who had tried surfing before the injury but quit out of frustration. “And the next day I was able to stand up.”… (source: [Veterans’ champion: Co-founder of AmpSurf widening his impact | The Tribune & SanLuisObispo.com](http://www.sanluisobispo.com/2011/10/08/1789185/veterans-champion-co-founder-of.html)) [Previous page](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615.md?page=4) [Next page](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615.md?page=6)