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Job / Career Programs for Kids with Autism

Ability Matters

Serves: Students ages 3-21 and adults with autism or other neurological disabilities. 
Supports individuals with autism and other neurological disabilities. Services include community-based crisis intervention, adult day services, and independent supportive living. Educational services are available through the Ohio Autism Scholarship Program to support student ages 3-21 at partner school districts. The Beyond Ability Matters program provides housing, educational experiences like preparing for a job interview, and community outings. Contact the organization or complete the online Inquiry Form for program details.
425 Metro Place North, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 956-1229
abilitymattersohio.com

Alpha Group

Provides vocational and supportive services for individuals with disabilities. Services are available in Ashland, Crawford, Delaware, Franklin, Huron, Knox, Licking, Marion, Morrow, Richland, Union, Wayne, and Wyandot counties. Workforce development services include vocational habilitation, job coaching, and additional employment supports. Employment supports for high schoolers include Project SEARCH, summer youth employment, and pre-employment transition services. They also offer integrate adult day services, supportive living, and community living. Transportation services are available for non-medical trips originating in Delaware county for a fee.

  • Delaware: 1000 Alpha Drive, Delaware, Ohio 43015
  • Dublin: 5043 Tuttle Crossing Boulevard, Dublin Ohio 43017
  • Westerville: 200 Hoff Road, Westerville, Ohio 43082

(740) 368-5810
alphagroup.net

ARC Voyagers (Formerly ARC Industries)

Program: Provides a variety of services for teens and adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Programs for teens include work readiness and job search help for youth overcoming trauma, pre-employment transition courses for high schoolers preparing for graduation, and paid summer work experiences. Adult services include one-on-one job readiness services, vocational habilitation/small group paid work experiences, career development, paid internships, adult day services, and adult social groups. They also offer ABA therapy through a partnership with Success on the Spectrum.
Eligibility: Children, teens, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Franklin County
Cost: Accepts Waivers, grants, and private pay.
Referral: Individuals may contact the organization directly or be referred through a partner organization.
ARC Bixby Center: 4200 Bixby Road, Groveport, Ohio 43125
ARC Grove City: 3705 Marlane Drive, Grove City, Ohio 43123
ARC Northeast Center: 500 North Hamilton Road, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
ARC West: 250 West Dodridge Street, Columbus, Ohio 43202
(614) 479-2500
arcvoyagers.com

Aspirations Ohio

Serves: Adolescents and adults 15-30 years with Level 1 autism spectrum disorder and their families
A group-based social skills and support program for teens and young adults with autism. The facilitated group engages in discussion and activities focused on understanding autism, building social skills, employment goals, and problem solving. The Parent and Caregiver group covers autism, financial benefits, local and state resources, educational supports, and more. Groups run for 12 weeks. After completing the 12-week program, participants and their families are invited to continue their involvement through a variety of community events. They also offer enrichment groups for DBT therapy skills, relational and sexual health, and self-advocacy. Groups are Fee for Service programs. Board of Developmental Disabilities reimbursement may be available. Financial aid is available on an as-needed basis. Visit the website for program schedules and application details.
The Ohio State University Nisonger Center: 1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 366-3276
nisonger.osu.edu/adolescent/adolescent-clinics-services/aspirations-ohio-2

Barks & Rec Opportunities Unleashed

This nonprofit organization is part of Barks and Rec, which provides dog training, grooming, and boarding services in Columbus, Ohio. Opportunities Unleashed supports individuals with disabilities by providing comprehensive job training and meaningful employment opportunities in the animal care and services industry. The program includes hands-on training in animal care, customer service, and teamwork as well as therapeutic horse riding and caretaking. Contact the organization for program and registration details.
1057 West Fifth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 725-1475
barksandrecohio.com/opportunitiesunleashed.html

Career & Technical Schools in Central Ohio

Career Technical Schools offer training programs that can prepare students for the workforce or college degree programs. Career-Technical Education (CTE) is available at every public school in the state of Ohio free of tuition. High school students should check with their home school district to see what CTE school they are eligible to attend, and for transportation options. Students may attend CTE schools for half-day or full-day programs to continue extracurriculars or classes at their home school. Program pathways typically include healthcare careers such as nursing, information technology, automotive services, welding, cosmetology, graphic design, and others. Check with each CTE school to see what programs they offer. Many CTEs offer adult education programs such as free diploma and GED programs, career certificates, and personal enrichment classes.
List of Ohio Career Technical Centers: highered.ohio.gov/about/ohios-campuses/career-technical-education/career-technical-education-ohio-technical-centers

Columbus City Schools Career-Technical Education: Serves high school juniors and seniors in the Columbus City Schools district. Adult & Community Education offers programs for health occupations, skilled trades, computer applications, high school equivalency, and free ESL/ESOL classes.

  • Columbus Downtown High School: 364 South Fourth Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
    (380) 997-4213
  • Fort Hayes Career Center: 546 Jack Gibbs Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43215
    (380) 997-6126
  • Adult & Community Education: 2323 Lexington Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43211
    (614) 365-6000
    ccsoh.us/academics/career-technical-education

Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools: Offers programs for high school juniors and seniors in Franklin, Fairfield, and Pickaway counties. Programs for adults include GED, ESL/ESOL, STNA, HVAC, and welding. Employability Prep is a personalized, transitional program for Franklin County students ages 16-21 with learning differences to receive hands-on training at community job sites. They offer free summer day camps for Grades 6-8 to experience hands-on learning.
4300 Amalgamated Place, Groveport, Ohio 43125
High School: (614) 836-4530
Adult Workforce: (614) 836-4541
Summer Camp: (614) 836-4530
eastlandfairfield.com

Delaware Area Career Center (DACC): Offers a variety of career-readiness opportunities for middle school and high school students on their campus and through satellite programs. They offer summer day camps for rising 7-9th grade students in Big Walnut, Buckeye Valley, Delaware City, Olentangy, Worthington, and Westerville school districts. Adult Education includes free adult diploma, GED, ESL/ESOL, and personal enrichment classes.
4565 Columbus Pike, Delaware, Ohio 43015
(740) 548-0708
delawareareacc.org

South-Western City Schools Career Tech: For junior and senior high school students in South-Western City School District. They also offer free adult workforce development courses in the evenings for HVAC, Certified Nursing Assistance (CNA), auto maintenance, and more.
4750 Big Run South Road, Grove City, Ohio 43123
(614) 801-3400
swcsdcareertech.com

Tolles Career & Technical Center: Serves Dublin, Fairbanks, Jonathan Alder, Hilliard, London, Madison-Plains, and Jefferson school districts. Adult educational opportunities include free ESL, GED, STNA EMT, personal enrichment classes, and more.
7877 U.S. Highway 42 South, Plain City, Ohio 43064
(614) 873-4666
tollestech.com

Educational Service Center of Central Ohio (ESCCO)

Provides professional development for schools and direct student services to improve student learning. Services include technical assistance and professional training for educators, school districts, after school programs, and community organizations. Their office oversees alternative education programs, interpreter services, experiential learning opportunities, supports for students experiencing homelessness, supports for students with disabilities, workforce development programs, gifted programs, and more. Visit the website for a full list of programs and registration details.
2080 Citygate Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 445-3750
escco.org/Services.aspx

Food for Good Thought

Provides employment services, job training, and sustained employment support to individuals with autism. Employment services are tailored to each individual and may include career exploration, resume help, interviewing skills, job coaching, and employment retention support. EveryBody Works is a transition program that blends college/post-secondary education with paid work experiences. The summer program is a 5-week experience for high school students with disabilities to complete paid work placement and get support with soft skills, interviewing, and more. Call for application information.
4185 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 447-0424
foodforgoodthought.com

Franklin County Department of Job & Family Services (JFS)

Provides financial, medical, and social service programs in Franklin County. Programs include cash assistance (Ohio Works First, LEAP), help paying for child care, food assistance (Ohio Direction Card/SNAP/EBT, WIC), medical assistance (Medicaid, Healthy Start), and Ohio Means Jobs assistance for job seekers. Emergency Assistance (PRC) funds may be requested for a maximum of $2,000 to use towards overdue rent and utility bills, car repairs; or damages as a result of a natural disaster, housefire, or flood. Visit the website to view specific eligibility requirements for each program, and to start your application. People outside of Franklin County should visit their local county Department of Job and Family Services.

  • East Opportunity Center: 1055 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
  • Northland Opportunity Center: 1721 Northland Park Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43229
  • West Opportunity Center: 314 North Wilson Road, Columbus, Ohio 43204

(614) 233-2000
Customer Access Center: (844) 640-6446
Medicaid Transportation: (614) 233-2381
Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline: (800) 324-8680
Workforce Development: (614) 212-1800
Ohio Direction EBT Card Assistance: (866) 386-3071
Find Your Local ODJFS Office: jfs.ohio.gov/about/local-agencies-directory
Self-Service Ohio Benefits Portal (Apply Here): ssp.benefits.ohio.gov/apspssp/ssp.portal
Main Website: jfs.franklincountyohio.gov

Goodwill Columbus

Goodwill Stores sell thrift clothing, furniture, art, and more to support their community programs. They offer free job training programs for adults in Franklin County. Job training programs include personalized one-on-one coaching, credentialing, and job placement. Program pathways include CNA, medical coding/billing, Information Technology (IT), and solar installation. Achieve More & Prosper (AMP) provides job assistance for income-eligible, out-of-school young adults ages 18-24. Services for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities (I/DD) include specialized job training programs, adult day services, in-home residential services, and the Goodwill Columbus Art Studio & Gallery.
Administrative Office: 671 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206
Art Studio & Gallery: 50 Robinwood Avenue, Whitehall, Ohio 43213
(614) 294-5181
goodwillcolumbus.org

JAN (Job Accommodation Network)

Offers free, expert guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. JAN consultants offer one-on-one guidance on workplace accommodations, ADA and related legislation, and self-employment and entrepreneurship options for people with disabilities. Assistance is available both over the phone and online. Their website also has helpful information on a wide range of medical conditions with related resources and accommodations.
(800) 526-7234
askjan.org

Learning 4 Life Farm

Provides job skills training and social skills development programs for neurodivergent youth and youth with autism, from middle schoolers to young adults. They empower students year-round through group learning and holistic development within a supportive farm setting. The farm features gardens, alpacas, bee-keeping, crafts, and more. They also offer summer day camps with summer adventures for youth and transition skills for teens. Cost varies. Contact the organization directly for details.
3062 Johnstown Utica Road, Johnstown, Ohio 43031
(740) 759-7138
learning4lifefarm.org

Lettuce Work Nursery

Helps young adults with autism make a successful transition from high school to the workplace. Their commercial greenhouse and nursery provide a workplace for associates to develop independent work skills, communication and social skills, and appropriate workplace behavior. Lettuce Work is an approved agency provider for the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and is authorized to provide adult vocational rehabilitation, adult day habilitation, enclave and community employment. 100% of the proceeds from the sales of nursery products go toward supporting these services.
14985 Fancher Road, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(740) 913-0495
lettucework.org

Lifeworks Autism Services & Milestones Autism Resource Center

Offers a range of services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)across the lifespan. Programs include prevocational training, life skills training, and adult supported living. Behavioral health services include Therapeutic Behavioral Services (TBS), psychiatry, psychotherapy, group day treatment, and community or clinic-based ABA. Behavioral Health Respite is available for OhioRISE Aetna members for clients age 5 and older. Medicaid waiver and Autism scholarship is accepted for most services. The Milestones Autism Resource Center offers professional trainings for clinicians, a Provider Directory for autism services, and additional learning materials on the website. The Milestones Help Desk offers personalized guidance for help finding therapies, support groups, funding help, and more.
3205 Fairmount Boulevard, Shaker Heights, Ohio 44118
2525 East Twenty-second Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44115
22001 Fairmount Boulevard, Shaker Heights, Ohio 44118
ABA: (216) 356-4993
Intake: (216) 320-8623
Main Office: (216) 320-8710
lifeworksautism.org

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders (CASD)

Serves: Children 16-30 months for diagnostic screening, Children ages 2-22, Parents, and Families. 
Provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary care focusing on evidence-based treatment, education, research and advocacy for children with the diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Services include diagnostic assessment, behavioral intervention, outpatient psychotherapy, and ABA team services. Find details about services and eligibility online. They also host the following programs:

  • Project SEARCH: 9-month workplace internship for Central Ohio students in their last year of high school who have Autism and/or Intellectual Disability with Complex Social and Communication Needs.
  • Triple P Stepping Stones: Individual or group classes for parents with children under 12 years old struggling with emotional and behavioral challenges of ASD.
  • Sibshops: Siblings of children with autism and other developmental delays (ages 6 to 12) participate in fun activities to explore feelings and better understand their sibling.
  • Adolescent Transition Programs: Includes Camp RISE summer program, CARE coping and relaxation group, iWork summer job skills program, and Social Skills Group.
  • Complex Behavior Program: Teaches effective strategies for parents to help reduce dangerous or problematic behavior patterns and build coping skills.

187 West Schrock Road, Westerville, Ohio 43081
(614) 355-7570
nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/center-for-autism-spectrum-disorders

Nisonger Center at The Ohio State University (OSU)

Serves: Infants, school-aged children, teens, and adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. 
The Nisonger Center has a variety of programs for individuals with developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome and autism spectrum disorders. Services include developmental/diagnostic evaluations, clinical support services, specialized dental programs, inclusive childcare and early childhood education, social programs for teens, TOPS post-secondary education and transitional skills program for adult students at OSU, psychiatric services, and more. They accept all major insurances, Medicaid, Board of DD Waivers, and offer a sliding scale for payment. Scholarships and fee arrangements are available for some programs. Contact the center for program details and eligibility.
1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43210
Administration: (614) 685-3192
nisonger.osu.edu

Ohio Guidestone

Program: Provides a variety of behavioral health services for youth, adults, and families throughout northern and central Ohio. Services vary by location and include outpatient counseling services, psychiatry/medication management, job training, foster parent training and support, substance abuse and addiction recovery, residential mental health treatment, and OhioRISE care coordination. Their ReadyCare walk-in clinics provide same day mental health and substance use treatment.
Eligibility: Varies based on service. Serves infants, children, teens, adults, and families.
Cost: Accepts Medicaid, Medicare, commercial/private insurance, and self-pay.
Referral: Individuals may be referred by a professional or refer themselves. Complete the Request Services form to get started.
Franklin County Location: 515 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(888) 522-9174
Services in Franklin County: ohioguidestone.org/locations/central-ohio/franklin
All Locations: ohioguidestone.org/locations

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD)

State agency connecting Ohioans with disabilities to resources and opportunities to find and retain employment. The Division of Disability Determination determines medical eligibility for Ohioans applying for Social Security benefits (Social Security Disability Insurance/SSDI and Supplemental Security Income/SSI. Visit the website for important information about benefits and to apply for services. Employment services are available through OOD Works.
Disability Determination: (1-800) 282-2695
Find an OOD Office Near You: ood.ohio.gov/about-us/find+us/find-us
ood.ohio.gov/home

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) Works

Provides employment support to people with disabilities in Ohio. Individuals must apply for services and select a vocational rehabilitation provider to work with. Service providers can help with career counseling, skill training, job placement, and more. OOD Works programs also include:

  • Ohio Vocational Apprentice Program: Provides paid apprenticeships for individuals with disabilities ages 18 and older. The goal of the program is for apprentices to secure permanent employment in state government after the completion of the program. Visit the website to apply.
    150 East Campus View Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43235
    (614) 306-1744
    ood.ohio.gov/information-for-individuals/services/student-services/postsecondary/ohio-vocational-apprentice-program
  • College2Careers (C2C): Partners with Ohio colleges and universities to ensure students with disabilities have the support they need to complete degrees, attain credentials and earn higher wages. C2C counselors are located in the disability services or career services office at each partnership school to help students with exploring careers, writing a resume, finding employment and prepping for interviews. This program is specifically for individuals with physical, intellectual, sensory, and mental health disabilities. Financial support for tuition or educational expenses is available for those who qualify. Go online for a list of participating schools and contact information. Visit the website for detailed contact information and to apply.
    ood.ohio.gov/information-for-individuals/services/student-services/postsecondary/ohio-college-2-careers

Find an OOD Office & Contact Information: ood.ohio.gov/about-us/find+us/find-us
oodworks.com

Ticket to Work

A career development program for Social Security disability beneficiaries age 18-64. Provides free employment services to help participants decide if working is right for them, prepare for work, find a job, or maintain success while working. Participants receive services such as career counseling, vocational rehabilitation, and job placement and training from authorized Ticket to Work service providers, such as Employment Networks (EN) or your State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency. Call to enroll.
(1-866) 968-7842
TTY: (1-866) 833-2967
choosework.ssa.gov

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