PRESS RELEASE

Call from TOHUM Autism Foundation and İŞKUR to companies: Grant Support Applications for the Employment of Individuals with Autism Are Beginning!

TOHUM Autism Foundation, implemented in order to enable people with autism to participate equally and sustainably in working life “Supported Employment Model”It continues to grow. In this regard, İŞKUR’s Grant Support Program for Disabled and Ex-Convicts With the grant provided under the program, a significant opportunity is being offered to companies to facilitate the employment of individuals with autism. 2025 is the target year for the Employment Agency's Disabled and Ex-Convict Grant Support Program within the scope of the program.“Autism Year”As of this year, projects that will support the inclusion of people with autism in the workforce will be prioritized. In this context, under the Supported Employment project, significant grant support is provided in categories such as employer compensation, salary for people with autism, and workplace setup costs. In TOHUM projects designed to integrate people with autism into the workforce, the Autism Foundation brings together the business world with social benefits and financial advantages through its expertise and guidance. This important support model also paves the way for more people with autism to be permanently employed in the sector.

The business community and all relevant stakeholders will be able to obtain detailed information about the scope of the project by attending the online briefing meeting to be held on June 10, 2025 at 16:00.

People with autism make change possible in the business world..

Many companies around the world are increasing productivity and quality in their business processes by leveraging the systematic thinking skills of people with autism, the meticulous attention to detail, and their commitment to routines. TOHUM Autism Foundation’To date, thanks to the partnerships it has established with companies such as Eker, GSK, Netlog, Boyner and Arvato, Eker has provided employment for 35 individuals with autism. Additionally, with the support of İŞKUR, it aims to extend this model to a wider audience.

Invitation to the Meeting – Take Action for the Participation of Individuals with Autism in the Labor Force

📅 Date: June 10, 2025

🕓 Time: 16:00

🔗Zoom Link: Click to Join the Meeting

🔢 Meeting ID: 859 4720 3709

🔒 Password: 131213

What is Autism?

Autism is a complex developmental difference that is present at birth and is often noticed within the first three years of life. Individuals with autism may experience difficulties in social communication, limited interests, and repetitive behaviors. Early diagnosis and intensive special education have a transformative effect on the lives of individuals with autism.

The Incidence of Autism Is Increasing…

While the diagnosis of autism was made in 1985 for one in every 2,500 children, as of 2025, one in every 31 children receives the diagnosis of autism. In our country, the number of individuals with autism is estimated to be 2 million, and the number of individuals affected by the family environment of these individuals is estimated to exceed 8 million. These striking data indicate that there is a need for increased social awareness and the rapid implementation of solution-oriented policies.

Why is employment important?

Employment for individuals with autism means more than economic independence; it means self-confidence, social inclusion, and quality of life. By focusing on detail and having strengths such as stability and loyalty in repetitive tasks, individuals with autism can make a difference in the business world.

However, structural support such as workplace organization tailored to an individual’s needs, identifying the appropriate position, and coaching support are essential for successful employment. For employers, this process not only fosters a culture of inclusivity but also enhances employee satisfaction and productivity.

TOHUM Employment Studies of the Autism Foundation…

TOHUM The Autism Foundation established the first and only model workplace school in Turkey with a grant from the Istanbul Development Agency in 2010. In 2013, the ’Work and Life Curriculum’ was developed, and in 2014, internship programs were launched.

The Foundation, which has been implementing full-time employment projects since 2018, launched the Career Center, which was specifically designed for the employment of individuals with autism in 2024. Through the programs and collaborations developed in this center, the participation of individuals with autism in the workforce is being made permanent.

Supported Employment

Supported employment is an approach developed to increase the participation of individuals with autism in the workplace and ensure their sustainable success in the workplace. Through this model, suitable job niches are identified, support is provided in the company of job coaches, and employers are encouraged to provide an inclusive work environment. Supported employment develops individuals’ skills for independent living while providing employers with a productive and loyal workforce beyond social responsibility.