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Celebrating Autism Awareness Month: Shawn’s Story and the Power of Employment
As part of Autism Awareness Month, the ASERT Collaborative has launched a powerful new video series titled This is Autism—and we are proud to share that one of Vista’s own clients, Shawn, is featured in the latest installment. 🎥 Watch the video here
Shawn is a client in Vista’s Adult Services program, where he receives support through our adult employment services for individuals with autism. In the video, you’ll meet Shawn—a friendly, social, and driven individual—who shares his journey to finding meaningful employment at Pizza Hut. Through Vista’s customized employment approach, Shawn was matched with a workplace where his personality and skills shine. Today, he builds pizza boxes, helps with inventory, and most importantly, connects with others in a job he loves.
Vista team members MaryLou Winters, Manager of Adult Employment Services, and Gloria Negron, Program Specialist, also appear in the video. Their heartfelt commentary highlights not only Shawn’s personal growth but also the broader importance of inclusive hiring and the positive impact that employment can have for adults on the autism spectrum.
💬 “We all want to live a meaningful life. We all want to have a purpose in life,” said MaryLou. “Work gives individuals that sense of purpose and fulfillment.”
We are incredibly grateful to the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training (ASERT) Collaborative, funded by Pennsylvania’s Office of Developmental Programs, for producing this video and the full This is Autism series. Their work gives voice to autistic individuals across the Commonwealth and promotes understanding of the diverse experiences within the autism community.
This video is just one of many being released throughout April as part of ASERT’s calendar of events for Autism Awareness Month. In a time when conversations around neurodiversity and inclusion are more important than ever, these stories help us reframe autism not as a limitation, but as a spectrum of unique potential.
👏 Thank you, ASERT, for your partnership and for shining a spotlight on stories like Shawn’s.📺 View the full This is Autism video series here
At Vista Autism Services, our adult employment services for individuals with autism are designed to empower clients like Shawn with the tools, support, and connections they need to thrive in their communities. From career assessments to job coaching and on-site supports, we believe every person deserves a chance to find purpose and independence through meaningful work.
If you’re an employer interested in creating inclusive job opportunities or a family member seeking support for a loved one, we’re here to help.
📩 Learn more about our Adult Employment Services.
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