Meet Emily. As a self-advocate, she is involved in and works for the Autism Society of South Central Wisconsin. She helps plan a networking conference for people with Autism. Between working and volunteering, she doesn’t have much spare time, but when she does, she enjoys hiking and biking. She wants to encourage people to be confident and stick to who they are. We’re so fortune to have Emily as a member of the Network! 

What’s your story? Tell us a little bit about yourself

Emily is originally from Darlington, WI. Her family moved to Stevens Point, WI her junior year of high school. She graduated from Mid-State Technical College with an Associate’s Degree in 2010. She shares that around that time, she was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome (a form of autism).She worked in assisted living facilities and then moved to Madison in 2017. She has been recently working in an office doing clerical work.

How are you involved with Self-Determination? Why did you join the SD Network?

Since moving to Madison, Emily has been involved with the Autism Society of South Central WI. She is the Administrative Assistant for the Autism Adult Support Group. She is also on the planning committee for INTEGRAL Autism Conference. “INTEGRAL means Interactive Networking, Talks & Education for Growing Autism Legitimacy. This conference is geared toward young adults on the autism spectrum. However, everyone is welcome to participate,” she explains.

Emily worked at and now volunteers for Prosperity Pathways and Onward and Upward. She shares that Prosperity Pathways is the ultimate work-at-home source with guaranteed employment positions for remote and onsite jobs. They share the tips, tricks, and techniques to be successful in getting hired. We are growing and getting more job-ready training programs underwritten by sponsors leading to immediate employment in different industries. Onward and Upward helps people who do not have a home and do not have access to a computer.

Tell us some good news: What’s the most exciting thing happening for  you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of Self-Determination?

Emily is excited that they were able to hold the INTEGRAL conference virtually on October 24th, 2020. She’s also excited that she recently moved into her own apartment.

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?

Emily encourages people to be confident and to stick up for themselves. She says, “use available resources and know who you really are." 

What are some of your hobbies?

Emily enjoys doing such things as reading, biking and hiking. She also loves to read, color, do puzzles, and play cards and board games.

***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.