Asperger's Job Readiness Program

The next session of the JVS Toronto's Asperger’s Job Readiness Program is scheduled to start on Feb. 11, 2013.

The program was instrumental in helping Toronto's Malcolm Fairweather find a job he enjoys along with a new sense of self-esteem.

Funded through Service Canada and offered in collaboration with Kerry's Place Autism Services, the program helps young adults with Asperger's between the ages of 18 and 30 prepare for employment.

It includes eight weeks of intensive workshops with weekly one-on-one sessions followed by up to 14 weeks of work experience with job coaching.

For more information:

Download Job Readiness Program Flyer

Download JRP Application

 

 

Two U.S. presidents and an autistic boy

For years, U.S. political journalist Ron Fournier and his wife Lori, thought their son was different, quirky and socially odd. But it wasn’t until the Fournier’s saw an episode of Parenthood that they realized their son was autistic. At the time, Tyler was 12.

Fournier, an editor at the National Journal, has written an emotional essay of what it’s like to be the father of a boy he was sometimes “embarrassed” of being embarrassed about. The article is about expectations, his perceived failures of being both a father and a son, and, how two U.S. presidents helped to show Fournier everything would be all right.

Fournier’s piece will make you like George W. Bush, if not momentarily, for his ability to instantly accept and connect with Tyler.

Bush gave Fournier a presidential directive to “love that boy.” Fournier listened.

 

 -- Tanya Talaga