$75K Grant Awarded To Howard County Autism Society Hiring Program

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — A $75,000 grant has been awarded to the Howard County Autism Society to support its hiring program that creates career opportunities for skilled, job-seeking adults with autism and increases businesses’ access to employees.

"We want to ensure that Howard County continues to be the best place to live, work, play and grow for people of all ages and abilities. Our Howard County Autism Society has provided essential support and resources to so many families and individuals in our community and this program is another giant leap towards a more inclusive workplace so that more of our children, friends and neighbors can thrive. We are sending a message to all businesses that we can support individuals living with autism to have meaningful career opportunity and contribute to our community," Howard County Executive Calvin Ball said.

The Autism Society Hiring Program aims to address the needs of adults with autism who have high-level, marketable skills and would benefit from building practical and social skills, confidence-building exercises and connections for a more competitive advantage. The program also will provide training to employers on how to effectively work and communicate with individuals with autism. Howard County’s Office of Workforce Development, which is funding the program, will also provide job readiness workshops and occupational skills training as needed.

“This unique workforce development initiative will allow individuals with autism in our community to learn how to create a resume, develop interview skills, and provide job placement opportunities,” Office of Workforce Development Director Francine Trout said. “The program strives to match the skillsets of the participants with the employment opportunities available.”