The name

Several years ago, I was at an Autism Society of South Carolina conference when I was struck by how often the keynote speaker used the word ‘engaged” when he spoke about the challenges facing individuals on the spectrum and their family members trying to figure them out and why they act the way they do. I believe his main point was we (the parents, the church, society) need to proactively engage autistic adults in activities, including employment. Voila, Engaged Employment became the name of this organization I would develop. I did ask friends and associates for their ideas, but nothing really came close to showing this need.

The logo

An adult male (representing 1 in 42 male births) stands looking through an open door. He is on the inside looking out because he’s not sure of what to say and do. He’s not comfortable approaching people he doesn’t know and coming up with the words to speak is especially challenging. He also is overwhelmed with the many steps of filling out an online application, keeping track of phone calls and emails, or knowing when to call someone; if someone answers, what to say. He is very uncomfortable getting dressed and being face-to-face with someone in an interview. He just stands at the door.

Inside the door frame is a spectrum of blue hues as people with autism and intellectual disabilities are not a one-size, fits-all disability. People who are blind, can’t see. People who are confined to a wheelchair, need help getting around. Some adults with autism speak very well and some can’t speak at all. Some drive while others don’t. Some excelled in school and made the honor roll while many others just got through it.

Engaged Employment provides an assessment and help in finding a job. Once a candidate is on the job, Engaged Employment has a job coach to work with him or her in understanding the job and communicating with managers and co-workers.

That’s the story behind the logo. Are you a business owner, manager or interested volunteer? Let’s help them get through the door.