National Foundation for Autism Research (NFAR)

According to the CDC, autism affects 1 in 36 persons in the U.S. today, equating to more than 30,000 individuals in San Diego. And yet, only 15 of this population can find and secure employment. Since 2015, NFAR has been opening doors to competitive, integrated employment for those with autism and helping those with barriers to employment gain economic mobility and stability. We do this through our comprehensive, autism-specific, vocational training programs, NFAR Works, NFAR Tech, and NFAR Cyber, with certifications and works experiences that help prepare individuals for entry-level jobs in the fields of office and manufacturing environments, software testing, and cybersecurity industries that offer opportunities for professional growth and advancement, benefits and more. Employment is so much more than a paycheck. Employment provides a way to become more self-reliant and start realizing their dreams, and opens up opportunities for professional growth and developing a social network of coworkers.

Each year, NFAR works with educators at the classroom, school and district levels from early childhood to transition age. Through proceeds of their annual Race for Autism, NFAR funds technology and academic initiatives that address key areas of concern for their autistic students, such as social skills training, developing effective communication skills for verbal and non-verbal students, and sensory and behavioral issues that can interfere with learning.