What is the Spectrum Connection?
We hear it all the time, “It’s not what you know, but who you know”. Many teenagers and young adults living on the autism spectrum are excited to look for work but fail to make the social and professional connections which are necessary in today’s job market. Spectrum Connection seeks to change this. By becoming a business participant in The Spectrum Connection, you could easily provide a young adult with autism just what they need to move towards gainful employment.
As a resident and business owner in Huntington, NY for over 20 years, I understand the power of local community. Yes, Long Island has flagship towns for tourists and day-trippers, but first and foremost we have communities that can feel like extended families. And one need not go far in these communities to find a neurodiverse population of young adults busy at work. Whether they are serving food at your favorite restaurant, stocking shelves at your favorite stores, or brightening up offices up and down Main Streets, people with autism add immeasurable joy and value to Long Island and its businesses.
FAQs
What does being a Spectrum Connection Business participant involve?
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Complete a brief (1-2 minute) Spectrum Connection Business (SCB) informational questionnaire so I can learn more about your business and your business’s needs
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Once you are potentially identified as a match for a Spectrum Connection Employee (SCE), you will hear from me and learn more about your potential match.
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You are free to arrange an interview with the SCE, if you would like to do so.
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If the match is mutually beneficial for both you and the SCE, you will schedule with them at your convenience and begin the official process of their employment/volunteering.
Would I be required to pay the employee?
While the ultimate goal is to match young workers with gainful employment, it is up you to determine if you are able to provide a fee for services or if they are only interested in hiring volunteers.
How many hours would I need to offer an employee/volunteer?
Hours can range from a one-time event opportunity to full-time work. As the SC Business you decide the level of work opportunity you are comfortable offering.
Will my business definitely get matched with an employee/volunteer?
Unfortunately, I cannot guarantee that your business will be matched with an employee but every effort will be made to do so.
While Spectrum Connection gladly welcomes any businesses, the following areas are often especially interesting to the individuals seeking opportunities:
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Service with animals
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Organizing spaces/materials
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Computers and technology
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Food service and food preparation
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Retail
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Clerical work
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Library/archival work
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Nature/environmental work
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Animation/Illustration
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Mathematics
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Writing
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Music
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General Creative Arts
Thank you for considering making a true difference in the life of a person with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.
