08-10-2006, 11:38 PM
Over the past few years, the state has made strides in identifying children with autism and placing them in special programs. But adults living with developmental delays say they've been left out when it comes to support programs.
Deb Lipsky loves her job. She's a licensed kayak guide, and is getting ready to take a group paddling in the ocean off of Bar Harbor. Lipsky has a Master's degree in education, but she has to hold down two jobs because she can't get a job for which she's qualified.
"The first time I say I have autism they assume I'm Rain Man, and that's just not true," Lipsky says.
Deb says one of the most difficult challenges she has faced is interviewing for a job. She has a very hard time making eye contact and she also takes many of the questions on job applications literally which has scared off potential employers.
"I've lost every job due to autistic issues," she says.
Lipsky says unlike children that are diagnosed with autism, she and other 'high functioning' adults have no support system and are often put in programs with people suffering from mental retardation.
Nancy Intrieri is the Executive Director of the Autism Society of Maine. She is lobbying the state to develop programs to help adults with autism live more independently.
"I'd like to see some intensive understanding in helping the individual get through the interview process, helping these individuals in the workplace, that's something," Intrieri said.
Lipsky isn't just a guide for kayakers. She also travels across the country, educating others about living with autism.
It's a message she wants to spread as the number of autistic children continues to skyrocket, children who will soon seek their own place in the adult world.
From .wcsh6.com/news
Deb Lipsky loves her job. She's a licensed kayak guide, and is getting ready to take a group paddling in the ocean off of Bar Harbor. Lipsky has a Master's degree in education, but she has to hold down two jobs because she can't get a job for which she's qualified.
"The first time I say I have autism they assume I'm Rain Man, and that's just not true," Lipsky says.
Deb says one of the most difficult challenges she has faced is interviewing for a job. She has a very hard time making eye contact and she also takes many of the questions on job applications literally which has scared off potential employers.
"I've lost every job due to autistic issues," she says.
Lipsky says unlike children that are diagnosed with autism, she and other 'high functioning' adults have no support system and are often put in programs with people suffering from mental retardation.
Nancy Intrieri is the Executive Director of the Autism Society of Maine. She is lobbying the state to develop programs to help adults with autism live more independently.
"I'd like to see some intensive understanding in helping the individual get through the interview process, helping these individuals in the workplace, that's something," Intrieri said.
Lipsky isn't just a guide for kayakers. She also travels across the country, educating others about living with autism.
It's a message she wants to spread as the number of autistic children continues to skyrocket, children who will soon seek their own place in the adult world.
From .wcsh6.com/news