Contact Information:
“Some Michiganians Over-represented in High Unemployment Rates”

Oakland County, MI, 2/1/06: To rally against the double digit unemployment rate of individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome, the Autism Society of America, Oakland County Chapter and the Metro Detroit Rehabilitation Association present the “Asperger’s and Employment” conference Tuesday, February 14, 2006 at DeCarlos Banquet Hall in Warren from 8:30 am. to 4:00 p.m. Featured speaker will be Gail Hawkins, noted author and director of the Hawkins Institute in Toronto.
Hawkins runs her own employment agency for those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Her amazing track record of success stories has her in demand. “The timing of this conference is right. We are fortunate to have someone of this caliber come and teach us.” says Beth Kimmel, Executive Director of the ASAOCC. “It is estimated that 95% of those with Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism, are under or unemployed. Add to that, Michigan is fourth in incidence of ASD and is experiencing some of the nation’s highest unemployment rates, and you have the makings for a pretty dire outcome.”

“It doesn’t have to be that way,” adds Maria King, representative for the rehabilitative agencies. “We are committed to meet workforce demands of the Metro area. We are committed to educate employers on the benefits of hiring those with ASD.”

Employers and public welcome to attend. Visit www.asaoakland.org for conference information and registration. Registration ends February 7, 2006.

###



####