Inclusion and more

October of every year is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. This campaign should carry on all year long for 365 days. I have an amazing job at the AZ School Boards Association. There I do many tasks like making coffee, making copies, cleaning out the supply closet.  I have one very important task which is answering the phones.  When my supervisor Kristi found classes for me to take through MasterClass, I was happy and ecstatic at the same time. I took the classes serious enough to where I took notes.  After I completed the classes, Kristi as well as my other supervisor Ellen came up a time for me observe ASBA's receptionist.  After this observation was completed,  I earned the privilege to answer the phones. I relieve Katie, ASBA's receptionist.  I answer the phones professionally and then transfer the caller if I know who to transfer them too.  If not I ask Ellen, Kristi or Katie questions.  The ask of answering the phones used to ...

First Place Phoenix, created by Denise Resnik is expected to open in July! In December 2016,  students from the First Place Transition Academy and staff from the Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center (SARRC),  community members and Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton attended the groundbreaking for First Place. Current First Place  Transition Academy students attend the First Place Phoenix groundbreaking Shortly after the groundbreaking I got in touch with Denise to see how I could get involved with First  Place.  She told me at the Resident Leadership Council. I jumped on board instantly. The Resident Leadership Council  will plan events for First Place Transition Academy students and First Place residents alike. Another one of our big goals is to make First Place a good place to work for staff.  We'll answer any questions or concerns that arise from staff. For months and months I have been saving up for First Place! I asked...

My name is Lindsey Eaton and I have autism. I have had autism since I was 12 years old. I have had dreams I want to follow because of my diagnosis.  One of my biggest goals has been finding a job where I feel supported. I currently work at the AZ School Boards Association. I complete clerical work like copying, making coffee, answering the phones, greeting guests and gathering signatures for birthday cards for my co-workers. I have been working there for close to 5 months. My co-workers and supervisors go out of their way to include me.  ASBA hosts company events, birthday parties and goodbye parties and encourage me to come.  I immerse myself in the company culture at events by talking to the team.  I join in conversations or initiate them.  These events and the inclusive company culture are helping me feel included and come out of my shell as a result. I also have an amazing mentor named Kristi who has helped me...