Luxury senior living community Wellington Bay recently announced a new collaborative partnership with the Els for Autism Foundation to host a work experience program.
This initiative, which officially launched April 6, provides adults with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities the opportunity to gain essential hands-on vocational training within a professional hospitality and healthcare environment.
“We are incredibly grateful for the commitment of host sites like Wellington Bay,” said Loden Coleman, manager of employment programs at Els for Autism. “They are not only providing a space for our participants to build meaningful, real-world skills, but also creating opportunities for residents and staff to experience firsthand the unique talents and contributions individuals with autism bring to the workplace. Partnerships like this are essential in changing perceptions and opening doors to inclusive employment.”
A strong advocate of strengthening community ties, Wellington Bay is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive.
“We are incredibly excited about this collaboration with Els for Autism,” said Jay Mikosch, campus executive director at Wellington Bay. “We believe in the power of engaging community through meaningful partnerships. We are proud to welcome these talented individuals into our family. Watching them develop their skills alongside our team is a rewarding experience for our residents and our staff.”
The 10-week program, running through June 11, features three participants working shifts on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. The interns are currently gaining experience in high-impact areas. One participant is training in administration, while two are gaining skills in culinary services.
Demonstrating the program’s goal of career exploration, one culinary participant plans to transition to a floor technician role for the second half of the program to diversify their skill set.
To ensure a successful integration, Els for Autism provided comprehensive sensitivity training to the Wellington Bay staff prior to the program’s start. Throughout the duration of the internship, an Els for Autism job coach remains on-site to support both the participants and the Wellington Bay supervisors, fostering independence and creating natural supports within the workplace.
The work experience program is designed for adults over age 18 who have completed high school and are seeking to enter the workforce. Upon completion of the 10-week session, a celebratory banquet will be held to honor the graduates’ hard work and achievements.
