“The transition to adulthood is especially sensitive. As a strong advocate of mobilizing the world’s youth to contribute to our collective future, I call for societies to invest more funds in enabling young persons with autism to be part of their generation’s historic push for progress.” -United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon
The Autism Society Philippines and the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Education partnered to conduct an ASP Career Placement Initiative (ASP CaPI) empowerment activity last 20 March 2016. Dr. Grace Gomez, professor who specializes in psychometrics and PWD counselling, and her class of MA candidates (some teachers, others recruitment professionals) moderated a holistic approach to preparing PWAs for employment.
 |
| PWA Applicants for Job Readiness Program |
The PWA applicants, most of whom have undergone the Job Readiness Program of the Independent Living Learning Center, were first tested for their interest areas and general aptitude. Those who struggled were given accommodation by the proctors, as long as time limits were kept. They were taught basics of how to apply for a job, preparing for job interviews and do’s and don’ts in job hunting. For the neurotypical, these fundamentals are sometime taken for granted; but these need to be articulated for this with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This short talk was quickly followed by a demo and a one-on-one simulation where everyone were given a feel for what an interview could be like. Tips for individuals to work on at home will be part of the activity report. The PWA applicants were also engaged in a self-confidence exercise; where the moderator guided them in how to appreciate their strengths and to be more aware of areas they can improve on.
This session was conducted for the purpose of helping persons with autism find meaningful work. It is our intention for PWAs to find employment and for them to stay employed. It is important for them to find a coach or to be able to articulate their feelings about work fulfillment, so they can be led to their true vocation.
ASP CaPI Batch 1 are profiled for "AutiSM at Work" -- a pilot employment program with the SM Food Group. The candidates will be screened for positions in SM supermarkets as baggers.
The ASP Career Placement Initiative is an program that involves the screening, counselling and placement of adults with autism for employment. We match persons with autism and compassionate employers. ASP calls for employers to look at PWAs as potential contributors with unique skills that can become their company’s competitive advantage. ASP is vested in creating Autism-OK workplaces and in helping individuals who are ready for employment find jobs they will enjoy for life.
Posted in: 
0 comments:
Post a Comment