
In a bid to tackle the ongoing employment crisis faced by individuals with autism and other disabilities, Autism Speaks, a national organization dedicated to autism advocacy, has developed a unique workplace initiative program called Workplace Inclusion Now.
Keith Wargo, the President and CEO of Autism Speaks, who is also a parent to an adult autistic child, shed light on the program's goals and the need for neurodiverse hiring during a recent interview with KRLD's John Liddle.
Wargo emphasized the challenges that arise when individuals with autism age out of services and enter the workforce.
"It took over a year to find him work," Wargo said of his son, AJ. "That's what happens in many, many cases. There's just not great pathways to employment."
With 5.4 million adults with autism in the US, the need for more inclusive employment practices is critical. Only 20% of people with disabilities, including those with autism, are employed.
"If we can close the unemployment gap, it would increase GDP by $25 billion," Wargo said.
Furthermore, companies that focus on neurodiverse hiring have experienced increased productivity, lower turnover rates, higher loyalty, and improved customer satisfaction.
Wargo mentioned the need for flexibility and understanding regarding individual communication needs. He also highlighted the potential of leveraging technology in both the hiring process and career development.
You can find out more about Autism Speaks' Workplace Inclusion Now program here.
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