As the incidence of autism continues to grow in the US, the Keystone RV customer service group has developed a strategy to build a work environment that supports employees with various abilities to thrive and reach their highest potential.
An expert in behavior intervention and coaching, Keystone’s Suzi Swinehart explained why the initiative is so important. “The CDC published a study in March that estimates one in 36 eight-year-olds are affected by autism spectrum disorder. Sadly, we know that today 85% of people with neurodiversity are unemployed. That’s unacceptable and we can do something about it. We have the opportunity to develop a supportive and safe work environment so these individuals can enjoy the social benefits of a work community and the security of a paycheck.”
The roots of Keystone’s Community Alliance Program were planted in 2017 when the company hired an employee’s son to work in their parts department. Since then, the company has invested in resources to expand the program adding training for all employees and an expert in behavior intervention and coaching to the team.
Keystone works with Bristol, Indiana-based ADEC and Goodwill of Indiana to identify opportunities for their clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are now employed throughout its customer service team.
Inspired by the work that Randy Lewis did in Walgreen’s distribution centers, Keystone hopes that this program will educate and encourage other organizations to open their doors to employees with different abilities.