'Agricultural specialisterne': rural employment revolution for those with Autism

[Visionary7903]

Inspired by those with added challenges

Furthermore there is that capacity in people to be truly inspired by being around and working with people with disabilities…

…But the surprise was how [Walgreens’ Disability Employment Initiative] changed the employees without disabilities.
One team member talks about how he is a better father to his children because of the character building that has happened within him as he has learned from the tenacity of those with disability he is surrounded by…

…“You just have a greater appreciation for people after working with someone like Lucas, [an employee with Asperger’s Syndrome]” says Graham. “It benefits your organization and brings morale up. I’m a better person for knowing and working with Lucas.”

…“Dana [founder of AmpSurf] inspires you to be a better person,” [Frank, a volunteer with AmpSurf] said. “He propels me to take on more things and be successful at them…”

(sources: Walgreens: Same Standards, Same Pay for People With Disabilities | inclusionparadox.com; Human Resource Executive Online - Aspies in the Workplace; Veterans’ champion: Co-founder of AmpSurf widening his impact | The Tribune & SanLuisObispo.com)

Furthermore skills of others can be enhanced by interacting with people with Autistic Spectrum Disorders…

…Another thing I’ve learned about people who don’t know someone with autism; assumptions are automatically made about their abilities. In fact, when I told another friend about the tours with Erik’s Minnesota Adventures, he was astonished that the experience guides are able to conduct the tour. This lack of awareness about autism is a huge barrier and even more reason for people to get to know individuals with autism. These tours are designed to do just that. They are at the heart of our purpose; bidirectional integration (a term we coined). Or in simple language, this kind of exposure helps those with autism gain socialization, communication skills and self-confidence as experts in an area. It helps those without autism expand their socialization, communication skills and self-confidence in interacting with different capabilities. Seems like a win-win to me…

…“Employers are recognizing the benefits of hiring an employee on the autism spectrum,” [Erin Onacki, the employment service program coordinator of the Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center (SARRC)] said. "They’re seeing there’s a huge benefit to their organization. It has diversified their work environment, changed the dynamic for their employees and used us as a resource for their friends and family."…

(sources: Job Opportunities: Taking the Road Less Traveled | Erik's Ranch & Retreats; http://www.azcentral.com/community/phoenix/articles/2012/05/01/20120501phoenix-center-links-autistic-adults-jobs.html)