Only 44% of Virginians with disabilities are employed, compared to 78% of those without disabilities. For parents raising adult children on the autism spectrum, that statistic is more than sobering — it’s personal. Employment isn’t just a paycheck. It’s independence, belonging, and purpose.

Last spring, Eli graduated from his year-long internship at Memorial Regional Hospital through Project SEARCH. During that year, he worked in the IVCU unit, Cath Lab, Wound Care, Ambulatory Surgery Unit and Outpatient Infusion Clinic. He built job skills, confidence, and independence (although he still insists sweeping floors is not his calling!).

Today, I’m thrilled to share that Eli is one of the 44% who are employed. He works four days a week at Autumn Care, a nursing and senior care facility, in the environmental services department. He has a job he’s proud of. He reserves his transportation each morning, packs his lunch, and wakes up independently. He has coworkers who value him and residents that appreciate his joyful personality. He has purpose and a paycheck. As a parent, there are few gifts greater than seeing your child succeed and be proud of their own accomplishments. 

But here’s the truth: outcomes like Eli’s don’t happen by accident. They happen because of many years of therapy, countless dedicated teachers, continued community support, strong advocacy, and organizations like the Autism Society of Central VA that support and provide programs for our children and families.

I am honored to serve again as the Chair of the ASCV Board. This organization has been deeply personal to me for years, just as it is for so many families in our community. Last year alone, ASCV provided 461 programs serving more than 11,200 participants and supported 786 members. ASCV also removed financial barriers by providing over $40,200 in scholarships so families could participate in programs. These numbers represent real families like ours- families navigating diagnoses, school systems, adulthood, employment, and everything in between.

We cannot continue this important work without you! Please join me in ensuring ASCV can keep providing vital programs and services for the Richmond autism community. Every dollar raised stays right here in the greater Richmond area, making a direct and meaningful impact on families like mine. Together, we can ensure that every individual on the autism spectrum has the opportunity to thrive at school, at work, and in life.

Here is how you can support: 
Make an online donation to ASCV through Jennifer Barnum – Team bELIeve
Join Team bELIeve on Saturday, May 16 in Innsbrook North Shore Commons

With gratitude,

Jennifer Barnum