Finding the Perfect Match: VR Client Gains Part-Time Job through Hard Work and Dedication

In celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) is highlighting the accomplishments of neurodiverse individuals, including individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

The DES Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program helps individuals with disabilities find and maintain employment. Luis Nazario, who is diagnosed with Autism and is non-verbal, worked with his VR counselor, Carla Johnston, to identify a job that matched his skills and abilities.

With Luis' individual job goal in mind, Carla helped to build his confidence and maximize his skills and abilities. After a couple of months of VR services, he started working in a local school cafeteria, where he's continued to work for the past year. Luis' mother, Vanessa, explained that VR was hands-on and expanded on the potential they saw in Luis. Vanessa said, "I've never seen anybody that's so happy about going to work."

Carla says that workers with Autism can bring a multitude of benefits to a company when they can utilize their unique strengths.

Related: Adults with Autism in the Workplace

The school, "saw the potential in someone [Luis] who was eager to learn more and do more. It's important to recognize everyone's potential," she added. "Let them know that they can do anything they set their mind to."

Vanessa's advice for other parents considering services through Vocational Rehabilitation is to "reach out to the program and just ask for help and educate themselves, because there are options out there for all kids like Luis, and they can succeed." She added, "I can't thank the program enough for everything they've done for Luis, and not only for him but for so many other kiddos."

For more information about employment programs for individuals with disabilities, please visit our Vocational Rehabilitation webpage.