SPARK | Fernco

WHAT IS SPARK?

Skills | People | Awareness | Resilience | Knowledge

SPARKs mission is to provide employment opportunities to individuals on the Autism spectrum. The SPARK department uses a strength-based, person-centered approach to work. Our staff is committed to matching the person to the job and work environment. SPARK provides opportunities for growth in the work environment as well as personal and social experiences. In addition to day to day workloads, SPARK employees gain much more than just employment. The program strives to create opportunities for self-advocacy while increasing confidence and the ability to operate in society.

HOW IT BEGAN

After watching a documentary featuring a father who acquired a popcorn company to create job opportunities for his son, Mark Cooper, the President of Fernco, had a revelation.

He realized that employing individuals on the Autism spectrum into the workforce would be advantageous for both the business and the community. Fernco established the SPARK program, which recruits individuals on the autism spectrum, aiming to leverage their diverse talents and skills. Amidst the challenges of high absenteeism and turnover brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the SPARK program emerged in the spring of 2021, rapidly expanding to employ over 30 individuals today.