Work experience for those with autism, development disabilities

The Kelberman Center and Utica College celebrated the conclusion of the second class of the Work Internship Network (WiN) program on Thursday, June 6. The WiN programis a unique 40-week internship rotation opportunity for individuals with autism or related developmental disabilities which allows participants to developworkreadiness skills with support in a real-world environment.

“With an estimated 50,000 people with autism across the country aging out of school-based supports every year, the need for opportunities such as those provided through the WiN program has never been greater,” said Dr. Robert Myers, executive director of the Kelberman Center. “We are incredibly grateful to the many professionals and students at Utica College that not only continue to support our WiN interns, but are actively involved in expanding the program and embracing diversity and acceptance across campus.”

TheWiNprograminterns are immersed in rotating work experiences at various departments across theUtica College campus, including the Office of Admissions, Office of Advancement, Office of Student Financial Services, Sodexo Dining Services, the Frank E. Gannett Memorial Library, and Pioneer Radio WPNR 90.7. Participants also receive on-going classroom instruction and career exploration support throughout the program. Additionally, each intern is paired with a Utica College student mentor for weekly lunch get-togethers which add an engaging social aspect to the experience.

“My new friends and job coaches showedme communication, teamwork and cooperation,” said WiN intern Joshua Davila. “I couldn’t have done it without them. Thank you for this wonderful time.”

Enrollment is open now for the next WiN session which starts in September. For more information, contactRachelRichie at 315-7976241 x330 or rachel.richie@ kelbermancenter.org.

Formore information visit www.utica.edu and www. KelbermanCenter.org.