The Pennington School and Eden Autism celebrated inclusion in the workplace during Autism Acceptance Month. On April 15, two autistic employees from The Pennington School were honored for their hard work and dedication to their jobs in Dining Services.
For 10 years, autistic individuals have worked in dining services at The Pennington School thanks to a partnership with Eden Autism. Eden’s Employment Program prepares autistic individuals for the workforce by teaching vocational skills that promote effective and appropriate communication with co-workers and customers, the ability to follow directions and attend to tasks, problem solve, and work safely.
Zachary and Holly, two young adults, have worked at The Pennington School’s Dining Services for 8 and 7 years, respectively. They sort food for the salad bar, restock plates and silverware, and clean the cafeteria. More importantly, they have become part of The Pennington School family.
“Our partnership with Eden Autism has been an incredibly meaningful and rewarding relationship that The Pennington School has cultivated over the years. What began as an opportunity to support individuals with autism in finding purposeful work in the community has grown into something far richer than we ever could have anticipated,” said The Pennington School Head of School Dr. William S. Hawkey. “From my point of view, this partnership has been highly beneficial to us. It gives us a profound, teachable experience, not through the formalities of a classroom, but through the simple, daily experience of inclusion. Our students have learned to see ability where others might see limitation, to lead with kindness, and to understand that community is built with one genuine human connection at a time.”
The April 15 ceremony honored Zachary and Holly for their hard work on the job and their dedication to providing quality service each day they come to work.
“As a 30-year-old man with autism, having a place where I can grow and contribute means so much to me,” Zach said in a speech during the ceremony.
Eden Autism also recognized The Pennington School for its commitment to an inclusive workplace.
“Inclusion in the workplace benefits everyone. Zach and Holly worked hard to secure their positions and keep growing and learning on the job,” said Eden Autism President & CEO Michael Decker. “The Pennington School created an environment where everyone, including individuals with a developmental disability, feels valued and welcomed. Alongside organizations like The Pennington School, we are working to make workforces across the state more inclusive and accepting.”
“If you are part of an organization wondering whether this kind of partnership is right for you, we would tell you without hesitation that it will change your community for the better in ways you cannot fully imagine,” said Dr. Hawkey.