In addition to writing children’s books, I’m also a contributing writer at J Life, Orlando’s Jewish community magazine. The spring issue just came out, and I’m honored to have written the cover story on Jonathan’s Landing Foundation, a nonprofit aiming to build housing for 500 adults with autism and create 5,000 career pathways and meaningful work opportunities for this often underemployed population through its Techtonic social enterprise.
Tech entrepreneur Jason Eichenholz is the man behind both of these incredible organizations. As the father of a son with autism, Jason’s mission is personal, but his goal is far reaching. Focusing on mobile device repair, a $300 billion industry short 20,000 technicians, Techtonic used Universal Design for Learning (UDL) standards to adapt the WISE Certification program from CTIA, the wireless industry’s trade association. Subject-area experts helped develop a neurodiverse curriculum with adaptable units that allow adults to obtain more accessible micro-credentials in mobile device repair certification. To introduce this field to adults with autism, Techtonic has partnered with schools and organizations to host hands-on SkillCircuits workshops.
As a social enterprise, Techtonic will use its profits to fund additional career training, provide financial support to cover residential and service costs for future residents of Jonathan’s Landing, and employ the underemployed while paying them a living wage. “It’s more than a career training program,” says Jason. “It’s a movement to change lives – starting in our community.”
Sharing stories like these, meeting incredible individuals, and resonating with readers is what makes me love community journalism so much. I am always learning something new and making connections that allow me to feel like part of something bigger while taking pride in my local community.
Emily Raij 