Now more than ever, there is a desperate need for programs that can successfully prepare those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) for meaningful and sustainable employment. There are an estimated 1.1 million persons on the autism spectrum that will be looking for jobs over the next ten years. Yet, the national unemployment rate for people with ASD is a dismal 85% (Autism Speaks), a figure that has remained unchanged for the last 7 years and is higher than for all other disability subgroups combined (Drexel, 2015).

NFAR is here to help!
Our signature vocational training programs are providing comprehensive, autism-specific training for high-demand jobs of the 21st century in areas such as software testing, light manufacturing, data entry, document management, product fulfillment, and more! At the same time NFAR is partnering with companies, large and small, across a wide range of industries to open the doors to employment for more people with autism, and helping to ensure a higher probability of long-term employment success. To date, NFAR has successfully placed 86% of its graduates in industry work internships.
 At NFAR, we understand the advantages of hiring those with autism and creating a more inclusive work environment. Last year we launched NFAR Talent to provide industry outreach and corporate training to businesses, large and small and across a variety of employment sectors interested in launching autism-at-work initiatives.

But what good would it be to merely encourage others to hire, if we didn’t do this ourselves? To date, NFAR has employed 11 individuals on the spectrum, as well as hosted 12 separate work internships positions for those with autism. Currently, 50% of NFAR's staff is on the autism spectrum and these talented individuals are instrumental in helping NFAR accomplish its goals.

To learn more about NFAR and its other programs, such as our Autism Parent Groups, Engage & Connect groups, NFAR Teacher's Grants, etc., please go to www.NFAR.org.