IGNITE is a program of the Autism Society of North Carolina, with founding support from the Evernham Family-Racing for a Reason Foundation. Fall 2015 • Volume 2, Issue 4
IGNITE is a unique ‘peer-to-peer’ community center for young adults with high-functioning autism (HFA) or Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) offering activities, skills training, and educational workshops that foster social, financial, educational, and employment independence for its members. More importantly, IGNITE offers a social environment where members can connect with others and experience a sense of community. For more information: Stacy Hultgren, IGNITE Director 704-897-8982 shultgren@autismsociety-nc.org www.ignite-davidson.org www.autismsociety-nc.org You can donate to IGNITE online or send a check made out to the Autism Society of North Carolina: IGNITE • 209 Delburg St., Suite 134 Davidson, NC 28036
IGNITE Member Pursues Career in HVAC “I always liked fixing things and figuring things out,” says IGNITE member Andrew Writesel. Andy moved a year ago to the Charlotte area from Ohio, where he struggled to identify a career beyond working part-time at a Kroger grocery store. He had decided when he arrived in Charlotte that heating, ventilation, and airconditioning (HVAC) might just be a good avenue for him to pursue toward a career. In his first few months as an IGNITE member, Andy concentrated on learning the social skills surrounding adult life and obtaining employment. When he felt he was ready, he and his mother contacted Charlotte Works (www.charlotteworks.com) to see whether Andy qualified for training programs and a scholarship. Charlotte Works referred him to the Urban League (www.urbanleaguecc.org) for training in HVAC. Andy took so naturally to HVAC systems that he says, “The training wasn’t hard; I didn’t even notice I was putting my mind to it.” After three months of intensive training, he tested for and received his universal certification in HVAC, which enables him to work on both commercial and residential systems. Andy is now looking for an entry-level position with an HVAC company in the Charlotte area, wrote a resume and a cover letter, and is practicing interviewing skills in IGNITE’s Thinking Like an Adult class to add to his new technical skills in preparation for starting his career. Andy has come a long way since his move to Charlotte just a year ago. Please join IGNITE staff in congratulating Andy for his achievement and wish him luck in his new career! We at IGNITE are so very proud of his accomplishments.