The California Autism Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit, operates A Better Chance Work Activity Program (ABC WAP), a community-based organization founded in 1983.

Funding is provided by the Regional Center of the East Bay and the California Department of Rehabilitation. A Better Chance Work Activity Program is CARF Accredited.

A Better Chance Work Activity Program has been in existence for more than 25 years. Our program has 55 consumers with a consumer to staff ratio of 15 to 1.

The program is designed to provide consumers with vocational skills and paid work experience that will enable them to work productively and independently. ABC Work Activity Program consumers are employed by CAF's Custom Assembly and Packaging service which provides top quality packaging, labeling, fulfillment and assembly services to businesses.

For more information about the ABC Work Activity Program, please email Jeannette Miranda at jmiranda@calautism.org or call Jeannette at (510) 758-0433 ext 109.

California Autism Foundation's Supported Employment Program provides job training and placement for individuals with developmental and physical disabilities. The goal of our program is to introduce our consumers into competitive employment.

Our Supported Employment Program provides a full range of services which enable people with disabilities to access and succeed in competitive employment. The program goal is to provide full access to employment through the provision of individual support services for people who have historically been excluded from employment.

Our services have a four step process:

1. Assessment: We carefully analyze each participant to uncover their interests, ambitions, talents, and special needs.

2. Job development: Our staff reaches out to local employers to match our consumers with desirable employment opportunities, tailored to their specific skills and interests.

3. Pre-vocation: We assist the consumer with the interview and accompany them through the entire hiring process to ensure, the employer and employee have a mutual understanding of expectations.

4. Job Coaching: Our on site, personal Job coach meets with the new hire on an ongoing basis to help assist them in job training, employer and employee relationships and provide personal support.

Benefits for Participants: In addition to on-the-job training and ongoing support, this program offers many intangible benefits. Supported Employment helps participants obtain meaningful work that gives a sense of purpose and personal fulfillment while enabling them to achieve independence and productivity. Participants enjoy an improved quality of life that enhances their relationships with family, friends and others.

Benefits for Employers: The Supported Employment program gives employers access to well-trained, productive employees who are motivated to work. The services of the Supported Employment Specialist are provided at no cost to the employer. In addition, the employer may qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit.

For more information about the Supported Employment Program, please contact Veronica Sanchez at vsanchez@calautism.org or call Veronica at 510-758-0433 ext 119.