Networking with other GATES members
“Autism Transition Services”
Lynn Smith, Easter Seals Middle Georgia – lsmith@esega.org
In 2009 we were approached by various community groups expressing concerns related to the preparation that was being offered to young adults on the autism spectrum as they transitioned from high school to work or post secondary education. The nature of the disability was making it difficult for these individuals to be successful in new “social environments”. We devised some programs that have been very successful in promoting safe socialization, development of self advocacy and networking skills, recreation within the community, job readiness preparation, and adjustment to “campus life”. We work with over 300 individuals and families annually in various ways in association with this program.
“Hospitality Works!”
Jennifer Tucker, Goodwill Southeast Georgia – jtucker@goodwillsega.org
Goodwill Southeast Georgia developed and implemented a Hospitality Training program. This training has resulted in stronger ties with the business community, a high level of engagement with job seekers, and successful placements into the hospitality field.
“What Can We Do To Prevent Poverty For The Next Generation”
Jenny Taylor, Goodwill of North Georgia – jtaylor@ging.org
The Brookings Institution published a report in 2013 based upon decades of census data review that there are three behaviors that, in combination, puts a person at 98% chance of middle class attainment vs. 2% chance of poverty 1) at least finish high school, 2) get a full-time job and 3) wait until age 21 to get married and have children.
Knowing that we will not stop focusing on people who have not graduated high school, who aren’t working, and perhaps already have a child as a single parent before age 21, for today’s talk let’s focus on the next generation. As workforce development agencies, we have the largest influence upon high school completion and full-time employment. Learn about Goodwill of North Georgia’s proven tactics YES and C3.
“Leveraging Technology to Increase Independence”
Anisio Correia, Center for the Visually Impaired – acorreia@cviga.org
Advances in technology continue to make a tremendous positive difference in the lives of persons with visual impairment. By providing easy access to information, including the printed word, technology enables people who are blind to live more independently and to pursue vocational goals previously regarded as unattainable. Examples of these technologies and some devices will be demonstrated.
“Café Blends, ‘Blending Autism Into The Workplace’”
Cole Chase, Nobis Works – Cole.Chase@NobisWorks.org
Café Blends is a partnership between Nalley Automotive Group and Nobis Works. Focusing primarily on hiring individuals on the autism spectrum, Café Blends’ purpose is to inspire job creation and create awareness of autism and the many abilities of individuals with autism.
“Shift Happens Overview”
Leigh McIntosh, Creative Enterprises, Inc. – leigh@ureach.com
Shift Happens is a proactive behavior management approach to serving people with disabilities.
“Heart of Georgia Transition Alliance”
Ken Carswell, Easter Seals Middle Georgia – kwcarswell@mges.us
In 2010, we were asked to join a workgroup whose focus was on the transition of students with disabilities from school to work or to post-secondary education. Shortly thereafter, this formed into the Heart of Georgia Transition Alliance, which was compromised of several agencies in and around the middle Georgia area. Some of the goals of the Alliance are to bring agencies together to improve the graduation rate for students with disabilities, expand support programs, develop transportation options, improve the transition process and to support and empower families of students with disabilities.
“CareerConnector: The Impact Of Going Virtual”
Stacy Rozier, Goodwill of North Georgia – srozier@ging.org
Stacy Rozier will discuss the evolution of Goodwill of North Georgia’s new virtual services platform, CareerConnector. She will share lessons learned since launching one year ago, explore the impact on face-to-face services, as well as the future of CareerConnector.
