In the final part of my conversation with College Internship Program (CIP) Program Director Ed Roe, we look at different practical situations where our children with autism can function and thrive, and Ed shares his experience observing the "autistic burnout" - when newly-arrived college students face too many life tasks all at once, and after about six weeks start to shut down.
CIP's focus goes beyond just the concept of independence, but to recognizing "interdependence," how people of all backgrounds need to live and work together, and how neurodivergent students fit in to our world.
Whether it's in the workplace or through travelling, we can create welcoming and comfortable environments for everyone involved.
It just takes a bit of education and understanding.
As Ed points out, the problem is that, "People are not incentivized to care."
Yes, it's a question of money, funding, training and responsibility, legal or otherwise.
But it's also about fostering a society as a whole that cares. Where people recognize that there are others less fortunate, who just need some extra support and understanding.
Not only could one day that be us, or someone we care about, but empathy for others is a meaningful, genuine and very human trait to have.
My thanks to Ed Roe for his time in this series, and for his wonderful work at CIP in Bloomington, Indiana and beyond.
Further links and research related to this episode:
The College Internship Program (CIP) in Bloomington, Indiana
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com