ABOUT US
Welcome to Engaged Employment!
Whether you’re someone with autism or some other intellectual disability and you need help getting a job; or you’re a parent of an adult with a cognitive disability, or an employer who wants to help; you’ve come to the right place.
Some people process information differently than the general population. They may be visual thinkers or hands-on learners. The important thing is they have gifts and unique personalities that have a positive impact in a workplace. Engaged Employment currently serves the Upstate of South Carolina in Spartanburg County and parts of Greenville County.
Our Mission
Engaged Employment helps adults with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities overcome barriers and gain independence by providing comprehensive employment services and partnering with employers.
Our Vision
All adults with autism or intellectual disabilities will have the support and services they need to be successful in jobs, thus creating neurodiversity in as many workplaces as possible.
Our Values
Personal Responsibility
Each one of us is responsible to use our gifts and abilities to their maximum potential and not be an unnecessary burden to society. With the income from a job, we can be more independent and not have to rely on others.
Work
Work is not designed to be a burden but a way of supporting ourselves and contributing to our community. Everyone who can work should work.
Community
Engaged Employment is part of our community and advocates for a community approach to serving those with autism and other intellectual disabilities. With active involvement from employers and hiring managers, we can create neurodiversity in our workplaces. With the expert support from providers such as Engaged Employment, adults with disabilities can contribute and be successful in the workplace.
Faith
God created us and gave us gifts/abilities to serve others in our community.
Meet the Founder
Terry Bolda is a former job coach with SOS Care, Inc., a state-approved provider of supportive employment services. He is a father of a son with Asperger’s Syndrome (high-functioning autism) and a member of the Employment Work Group of Greenville Collaboration Action Network.
He helps adults with autism, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities obtain and keep good jobs in their communities. Having a son and nephew on the autism spectrum, he brings personal and professional experience to the workplace. A Wisconsin native, Terry has served in leadership roles with social service agencies in marketing communications and development since 2003.
Connect with Terry
Integrated, competitive employment is not a “one size fits all” approach, especially for individuals with special needs. Successful employment only comes through a customized approach with each individual. Job coaches with Engaged Employment have completed ACRE training emphasizing customized employment services, beginning with discovery and continuing through to on-the-job coaching.
