Stress-Free IEP® with Frances Shefter, Episode 72
In this episode of Stress-Free IEP®, host Frances Shefter talks with Caitlin Garman, Director of Admissions and Outreach at BroadFutures. BroadFutures is a one-of-a-kind mentoring, training, and internship program for neurodivergent young people. Before coming to BroadFutures, Caitlin worked in a DC public charter school as a social worker and transition coordinator supporting students with IEPs reach their goals and plan for post-secondary success.
Meet Caitlin Garman: Advocating for Neurodivergent Youth
Caitlin Garman, Director of Admissions and Outreach at Broad Futures, shares her journey from teaching and social work to supporting neurodivergent individuals through tailored internship programs. Broad Futures stands out by not only offering career opportunities but also by educating employers on creating neuro-inclusive workplaces.
Broad Futures: Empowering Neurodivergent Young Adults
Broad Futures focuses on providing internship opportunities in various sectors across Washington, D.C., paired with mentoring and career readiness training. The program emphasizes inclusivity and practical skill development, aiming to make participants and workplaces more adaptive and understanding of neurodiversity.
Transition Challenges and Solutions
The transition from high school to further education or employment is often riddled with overlooked opportunities, especially for students with IEPs. Caitlin discusses the importance of early career exploration and realistic transition planning to ensure that neurodivergent students can thrive beyond the structured support of high school.
Internship Insights and Experiences
Participants in the Broad Futures program gain real-world experience in fields that interest them, which not only helps in career decision-making but also builds crucial workplace skills like communication, problem-solving, and self-advocacy. Caitlin highlights success stories from the program where interns engaged in meaningful work, from political offices to hospitality.
The Role of Employers and Community Support
Broad Futures collaborates closely with various businesses to provide enriching internships. These partnerships are pivotal in fostering a supportive environment that recognizes the potential of neurodivergent individuals. Employers benefit by learning and implementing best practices that enhance workplace inclusivity.
Listen to this and other episodes of Stress-Free IEP® on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@shefterlawpa) for more insights on supporting neurodivergent individuals through transition periods.
Check out resources and learn more about the impactful work of Broad Futures at http://www.broadfutures.org
Learn more about Caitlin Garman:
* Connect with Caitlin on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlin-garman-licsw-lcsw-c-734637212
* Follow Broad Futures on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/broadfutures
* Follow Broad Futures on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BroadFutures
* Visit Broad Futures’ Website: http://broadfutures.org
* Follow Broad Futures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/broadfuturesdc
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Watch more episodes of Stress-Free IEP®:
* On website: https://shefterlaw.com/blog
* On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCff0foIeCETrWbtsQSDwckQ
Connect and learn more from your host, Frances Shefter:
* https://shefterlaw.com/#contact-me
* https://shefterlaw.com
* https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesshefter
* https://www.facebook.com/ShefterLawPA
* https://twitter.com/shefterlawpa
* https://www.instagram.com/shefterlawpa
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