The Bottom Line of Disabilities: Investing in Social Change

“Autism in the Workforce: Identifying Obstacles and Leveraging Innovation”

ABOUT THIS EVENT

This symposium is one in a series that convenes expert panelists including corporate and civic leaders, advocates, and industry professionals to discuss the economic impact that disabilities have in our communities. It is an opportunity for candid conversations about the innovative ways to tackle the pressing social, financial, and economic issues related to disabilities. Beginning in 2014, the first two installments of this series took place in Salt Lake City, and we are delighted to bring this important discussion to Philadelphia in 2016. A portion of the proceeds from the program will be donated to Columbus Community Center.

View resources from the first series installment (July 2014)

View resources from the second series installment (January 2015)

ABOUT THE ISSUES
One in five individuals in the general population has a disability. Public policy and traditional funding sources have created safety nets, provided opportunity for community integration, and given a voice to some of the most vulnerable in our communities. However, the social, financial, and personal costs of disabilities can be staggering. How do government policies frame the issues? Can we harness entrepreneurship and capital markets to drive social change that has meaningful impact? Panelists have included a cross section of business, government, academic, and civic leaders discussing the roles that governmental entities, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, researchers, businesses, and the nonprofit sector play in facilitating and advancing opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has come to the forefront as a diagnosis that has lifetime implications for families and society. Currently, 1 in 68 children in the U.S. is being diagnosed, and worldwide 1% of the population is estimated to have ASD. New Jersey and Utah have the highest rates of autism in the U.S. with 2% of those states’ populations being diagnosed. Young adults with ASD leaving public school are facing an 80% unemployment rate, the highest of any demographic. Cost to families over a lifetime is estimated at $2 million. IT companies like SAP, CAI, and Microsoft are recognizing the unique, innovative thinking that those with ASD can bring to the workplace and re-thinking accommodations. Some of the cutting-edge academic studies, policy work, and employment practices are emerging in the northeast U.S.

8:15 Registration and Breakfast

9:00 AM       Welcome

• President Patrick Harker, President, Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia
• Stephanie Mackay, Director of Development, Columbus Community Center and GIC Board Member
• Philippa Dunne, co-editor of The Liscio Report and Sightlines Bulletin and GIC Board Member

9:15 AM       Session I: Leveraging Innovation through Public/Private Partnerships

• Jack Markell, Governor of Delaware
• Thorkil Sonne, CEO, Specialisterne
• Ernie Dianastasis, Managing Director, CAI

10:15 AM      Session II: Research and Practice that Informs Innovation

• Craig Newschaffer, Director of the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University
• Stephanie Mackay, Director of Development, Columbus Community Center and GIC Board Member
• Joseph N. Gousie, Sr., Director of Non-Traditional Career Services and Training, Elwyn

11:45AM        Conclusion

• Philippa Dunne, co-editor of The Liscio Report and Sightlines Bulletin and GIC Board Member