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Behind the Scenes: Vista School Student Skylar T. Takes the Spotlight in ASERT’s This is Autism Video Series
Vista Autism Services is delighted to announce that two of our clients have been selected to participate in ASERT’s This is Autism video project. One of the chosen participants, Skylar T., is a student at The Vista School who communicates using an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device. Skylar recently took part in a video shoot with Uproot Creative, who visited him at one of his favorite places—Harrisburg Senators Stadium.
Skylar’s role at the stadium is part of his pre-employment volunteer job, where he works weekly with Chris Pearson, Vista’s Employment Specialist. Skylar helps maintain the stadium by removing cobwebs from seats, gaining valuable skills that will help him toward future independence. For Skylar, this volunteer position is not just about work—it’s about engaging in something he loves. His visits to the stadium, a place tied to his passion for baseball, are a highlight of his week.
During the video shoot, Skylar was joined by his family, his speech therapist Shannon Welch from Penn State Health, and Vista team members including Liz Barth, Director of Transition & Employment Services for The Vista School. The day was filled with excitement as Skylar proudly demonstrated how his AAC device allows him to communicate and participate fully in his job, while being filmed for ASERT’s initiative. Skylar expressed his excitement throughout the process, and the camera crew at Uproot Creative did a fantastic job making him feel like a movie star for the day.
The This is Autism video project, funded by ASERT, aims to raise awareness and celebrate the diversity within the autism community. Each video will highlight the unique experiences of individuals with autism across Pennsylvania, showcasing their personal stories, their day-to-day lives, and their contributions to the community. Skylar’s video will be part of a broader series, expected to debut next year during Autism Awareness Month.
This project emphasizes the importance of accessibility tools like AAC devices, which have opened up new ways for individuals like Skylar to engage with the world around them. By sharing his story, Skylar is helping to shine a light on the significance of technology and support in fostering independence for individuals with autism.
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to ASERT for funding this wonderful project and to Uproot Creative for their professionalism and creative approach in bringing these stories to life. We’re thrilled to be part of this initiative and can’t wait to see the final video in 2025!
In the meantime, stay tuned for behind-the-scenes photos and updates from Skylar’s video shoot, and be sure to check our website and social media channels for more stories about the incredible individuals we support at Vista Autism Services.
About ASERT and Uproot Creative ASERT, funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, connects individuals with autism, families, and professionals with autism resources and services. Their This is Autism project highlights the wide range of experiences within the autism community, and their goal is to amplify the voices of individuals across the state. Uproot Creative Services, a video production company, brings a unique storytelling approach to this project, ensuring that each participant’s story is captured with authenticity and care.
Stay connected with Vista Autism Services for more updates!
If you or a loved one are interested in sharing stories and experiences for this project, please apply at this link: https://pennstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_dnJhWqyAl8FMljE
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