Now Accepting Clients & Partners in Our Vocational Program for Young Adults with Autism

At the Ackerman Center, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to realize their full potential—regardless of ability or diagnosis. For teens and young adults living with autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions, that path often begins with meaningful employment, skill-building, and support from a community that believes in their future.

Yet the road to employment is not without its challenges. According to the 2017 National Autism Indicators Report: Transition Into Young Adulthood, nearly 66% of adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are unemployed. That’s a gap we’re determined to close.

Through our Vocational Program and Services, we help young people build the skills, confidence, and connections they need to pursue employment or even launch their own businesses. And through strong partnerships with local organizations, we’re expanding what’s possible—together.

What We Offer for Clients

Our vocational services are now accepting new clients. Each program is tailored to meet young people where they are. Whether they’re just starting to think about their future or ready to enter the workforce.

WORKS Community
Participants gain hands-on experience at real job sites and build core employment skills like resume writing, interviewing, and workplace communication. Supported by job coaches and caseworkers, they attend weekly sessions at partnered worksites and receive personalized coaching every step of the way.

C.A.N. (Career Awareness & Navigation)
This 12-week pre-vocational program is offered online or in person. It focuses on career exploration and practical workplace skills, like professional greetings and body language, delivered through video lessons, guided exercises, and mock interviews. Clients also receive individualized coaching and progress assessments.

Career Exploration
This program helps clients identify career goals while building essential habits such as time management, ethical behavior, and goal setting. Emphasis is placed on communication skills and the value of mentorship in long-term career success.

Adaptive & Social Connection
Designed to enhance social and adaptive skills needed for workplace and personal success, this program offers guided sessions on teamwork, communication, and professionalism. Real-world social scenarios are practiced and reinforced with support from a caseworker.

All programs include Parent Empowerment Training and access to family support services through our Navigation Program.

Why Partner With Us?

The strength of our vocational program depends on one powerful principle: collaboration.

We know that meeting the needs of neurodivergent youth requires a community-wide effort. Which is why we’re inviting local businesses, nonprofits, and organizations to join us.

Partner Benefits:

Access to the Work Opportunity Tax Credit
Social media promotion of our partnership
Manager training and coaching support to ensure a smooth transition for clients and teams
Flexible opportunities: internships, job training, or mentorship models
Direct impact on workforce development and community inclusion

Whether you’re a business owner, team leader, or corporate sponsor, your participation helps build inclusive workplaces and stronger communities. We are looking for volunteer, paid, and unpaid internships, as well as paid employment opportunities for our clients.

You can also sponsor year-round SIBS and BUDs outings, which promote social connection and community inclusion for young people in our programs.

Why Hire Neurodivergent Talent?

Hiring individuals with autism and other neurodiverse conditions isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a smart investment. Neurodivergent employees bring:

Exceptional focus and attention to detail
Reliability and consistency
Unique perspectives and innovative thinking
Strong contributions to team culture and productivity

When inclusion is intentional, everyone benefits.

Let’s Work Together

Ready to become a partner or learn more about our programs?

Email our Vocational Programs team at autismcenter@grantagift.com

Or call 702-998-9505

Together, we can ensure every young person has the tools—and the community—to thrive.