Cason is a graduate of the 2024 College Experience class. During her time in the program, she showed an interest in retail and childcare, having held internships at both Peter Harris and Mercy Care for Kids. It was at Mercy Care for Kids where she found her calling. She instantly connected with the children and showed empathy with them. As one of her post-graduation goals, Cason decided she wanted to work as a Teaching Assistant (TA) at a daycare.
Cason worked with her job coach and interviewed at the Anderson Center, a special education preschool that provides children ages three to five years old opportunities to learn in an environment that is developmentally appropriate and teaches the skills needed to be successful in kindergarten. Though Cason had little experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), she knew her lived experience as a person with ASD would be useful. During her visit to the Anderson Center she engaged with the children warmly and played with them. Cason was offered the job of Teaching Assistant and began her new role in September of this year, and we couldn’t be happier for her.
“I really like working with young children with special needs,” Cason remarks. “I can help them because I understand what they may be experiencing as a person with Autism, and they can see what they can grow up to be.”
“Cason is a hardworking, reliable team member who is exceptional at relating to and connecting with the students of Anderson Early Learning Academy (AELA). Cason’s own experiences with a disability have undoubtedly given her a unique perspective and contribute to the incredible level of empathy that she brings to every conversation throughout the day. Her commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities aligns perfectly with our values at Anderson Early Learning Academy; she leads by example, and we all learn so much from her every day. On behalf of everyone at AELA, I want to publicly applaud Cason for the meaningful impact she is making here – and I want to thank Living Resources for providing us with a work-ready team member. We look forward to a continued collaboration in the years to come.” Said Daniel Rounds MS Ed, SBL, Director of Early Childhood Education at Anderson Early Learning Academy.
Living Resources’ College Experience program is a two-year campus-based residential program (with an optional third year) that, in partnership with Russell Sage College provides young adults with disabilities the support, skills, confidence, internships, and work experiences they need to gain independence. To learn more, click here.
