*Note: This post was initially posted on the now discontinued Dallas Moms Blog on October 20, 2010.*

If you’re anything like me, your worries for your children don’t stop at today or tomorrow or even next week or month, they extend well into the future. Whether you’re raising a child with or without a disability, you’re probably actively making important plans for the future. Those of us raising children with special needs are often quite uncertain as to what the future will hold for our precious kiddos. Much of my concern about Ethan’s future (now 7-years-old) relates to how we might better help Ethan find success in higher education and later in establishing and maintaining a rewarding career. I know that many parents raising children like Ethan, with Asperger’s Syndrome or High Functioning Autism, share these concerns. We all see tremendous potential in our kids and simply want them to succeed and find joy in what they choose to do in life!

For that reason, I was thrilled to hear about the cutting-edge nonPareil Institute.non Pareil (nP) is taking a novel approach to working with adults on the spectrum in an on-the-job training program for technology- and gaming-related careers. The name “nonPareil” means “unparalleled.” nP is the first Institute of its kind.

Many times young adults on the spectrum have an innate knack for technology, but too often are not encouraged to build on this interest as they transition from high school into college or into the work force. nP takes this acute interest and natural skill with  computers/technology/gaming and offers a different instructional and work environment which promotes acceptance, builds self-esteem and supports dignity.

According to Gary Moore, President and co-founder of nP, since much of the neurotypical world is not extremely accepting and accommodating of adults with Autism, there is a high rate of depression and suicide. Many young adults with ASD, even though they are bright, capable and eager, are unable to score and hold down “mainstream” jobs (like filling salt and pepper shakers in restaurants).

I can see why mainstream jobs could prove challenging in at least two ways. First, some of our young adults on the spectrum are simply not equipped to handle the intricate social system of some work environments nor are the work environments accommodating of these individuals’ diverse needs. Secondly, jobs (like salt/pepper shaker filling or bagging groceries at the supermarket) are far from stimulating or rewarding to these individuals. We all desire to work in jobs that fulfill us, right? Why would we expect anything different from individuals on the spectrum? Simply put, we shouldn’t.

That is why nonPareil’s approach to “education” is so refreshing. The students, ranging in age from 18 to 50+, work together in small group sessions led by nP’s other co-founder and CEO, Dan Selec, to build fundamental technical skills and knowledge. Everyone at nP values the students’ differences and the instructors focus on building upon the each individual’s strengths and abilities – as opposed to accentuating their disabilities.

Dan dreamed up nP in 2007. He started the Institute in 2008 to expose students to different technologies and tools in order to help them find their niche. Dan shares that nP implements a “mission of love and technology” that “meets students where they are and teaches them right there.” Both Dan and Gary are parents of children diagnosed with ASD. Their love and respect for this population is palpable; what they are doing for this group of adults is noteworthy, courageous and inspiring.

Once students have a foundation of knowledge and skill, they are encouraged to work independently on projects.  Many students are