SunTrust Foundation Awards $6,000 to Support Adults with Autism
Raleigh, NC (PRWEB) July 10, 2015 -- The SunTrust Foundation awarded a $6,000 grant to the Autism Society of North Carolina to expand its employment support program.
“SunTrust proudly supports the Autism Society of North Carolina and their efforts to increase access to work training programs for individuals affected by autism,” said David Stevens, SunTrust Carolinas Division President, speaking on behalf of The SunTrust Foundation. “These training programs connect individuals with employment resources and allow them to begin on a path to financial well-being.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that up to one out of every 68 children born today has some form of autism, and the incidence is one in 58 in North Carolina. As individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) finish high school and move into adulthood, they are often for the first time without resources or guidance to navigate the next chapter of independent living and employment options. It has been estimated that about 80 percent of adults with ASD are unemployed or underemployed.
The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC), the leading statewide resource organization in North Carolina serving people across the autism spectrum throughout their lifespans, helps individuals with autism find, keep, and thrive in jobs. Employment supports coordinators work with adults with autism as they explore their interests and skills. They train individuals in interviewing, creating a resume, and networking. Once in a job, adults with autism can receive support in learning the skills required and how to interact with co-workers and supervisors. ASNC believes meaningful employment is a key part of a fulfilling life.
The SunTrust Foundation’s grant will provide 25 to 30 individuals in the Triangle area with transportation vouchers or support and pre-professional and professional supplies including business attire and job-related materials. The grant will also provide support for employment supports staff.
The SunTrust Foundation’s mission is to provide monetary support to nonprofit organizations and institutions engaged in activities promoting education, health and human services, culture and art, and civic and community involvement that contribute to the social and economic development primarily in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic.
Background:
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. As many as 1 in 58 children may be diagnosed with ASD in North Carolina, according to a prevalence study by the CDC of 8-year-old schoolchildren.
• For more than 45 years, the Autism Society of North Carolina has worked to address areas of need and expand services for the autism community in North Carolina. ASNC works to directly improve the lives of individuals affected by autism by providing advocacy, education, and services.
• For more information, call 1-800-442-2762 or visit http://www.autismsociety-nc.org.
David Laxton, Autism Society of North Carolina, http://www.autismsociety-nc.org, 919-865-5063, [email protected]
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