In The Politics of Autism, I discuss the employment of adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. Many posts have discussed programs to provide them with training and experience.
Americans with disabilities reached a milestone this month, as the major economic indicators showed increases for the 24th consecutive month, according to today’s National Trends in Disability Employment – Monthly Update (nTIDE), issued by Kessler Foundation and the University of New Hampshire’s Institute on Disability (UNH-IOD). The strengthening economy underscores the value of diversity in the workplace. As hiring increases, preparing for the workplace is more important than ever for people with disabilities. Jobseekers with skills and experience gain employment more readily. Programs that provide hands-on work experiences are equipping people with disabilities with the skills they need to succeed in careers in government, nonprofits and private industries.
In the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Jobs Report released Friday, April 6, the employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities increased from 28.6 percent in March 2017 to 31.7 percent in March 2018 (up 10.8 percent; 3.1 percentage points). For working-age people without disabilities, the employment-to-population ratio also increased from 73.3 percent in March 2017 to 73.6 percent in March 2018 (up 0.4 percent; 0.3 percentage points). The employment-to-population ratio, a key indicator, reflects the percentage of people who are working relative to the total population (the number of people working divided by the number of people in the total population multiplied by 100).MeiMeiFox reports at Forbes:
Stella Spanakos serves as the cofounder and director of development at the Nicholas Center, which offers services to teach social and vocational skills, while also supporting families. The Nicholas Center provides vocational support to three enterprises also cofounded by Spanakos: Spectrum Designs, Spectrum Bakes, and Spectrum Suds. Spectrum Designs is a fully functioning apparel customization shop that provides gainful employment for individuals with autism within a social enterprise. Spectrum Bakes makes customizable granola bars. And Spectrum Suds is a boutique laundry service. Clientele for these businesses includes Google, Comedy Central and Betches, as well as municipalities, nonprofits and schools.In Indianapolis, Rich Nye reports at WTHR:
On West Main Street in Carmel's Arts and Design district, No Label at the Table Food Company is now open every day except Monday.
The bakery offers tasty treats and jobs for people with autism.
Founder Shelly Henley’s desire for her son to become a productive, working adult became a business that's baking with a purpose.
“No Label at the Table is a gluten- and dairy-free company that employs people with autism,” explained Chef Hannah Johnson while stirring chocolate frosting Friday morning.
The business started about a year ago just opened the bakery storefront two weeks ago.
