![\"Alex](\"https:\/\/s3-prod.dogtopia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/344\/2024\/04\/alext-300x293.jpeg\")
<\/p>\nAs part of our mission to enable dogs to positively change our world, one of the worthy causes we support is employment initiatives for adults with autism. The unemployment rate for adults with autism is twice as high as those with other disabilities, so the Dogtopia Foundation partnered with the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center to develop an Autism Employment Guide for Dogtopia franchises.<\/p>\n
In honor of Autism Awareness Month, we wanted to highlight a heartwarmi<\/p>\n
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ng success story from Dogtopia of Rocklin, California. Alex T., who is on the autism spectrum, joined the Dogtopia of Rocklin team as a Canine Coach in October 2023 and quickly made an impression with his infectious energy and charismatic personality.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are very happy to have Alex on our team,\u201d Diane Foos, owner of Dogtopia of Rocklin, said. \u201cHe is full of energy. He enjoys all his pups in the Park playroom, and it is obvious that the admiration is mutual. Alex is also a skilled conversation starter, and he loves to get all the staff engaged in lively conversations about different topics.\u201d<\/p>\n
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While Alex is clearly making an impact on the pups and people at Dogtopia of Rocklin, it appears Dogtopia is leaving its mark on Alex, too.<\/p>\n
\u201cA year ago, I would not have known my son would be working in a place he not only loves but is accepted as a person on the autism spectrum,\u201d Nicole T., Alex\u2019s mother, said. \u201cAlex absolutely adores working part-time at Dogtopia of Rocklin. Since he started his role, we\u2019ve seen him grow in his confidence and happiness. He comes home with stories of seeing his \u2018regulars,\u2019 Max and Penelope, or welcoming a new dog to the mix.\u201d<\/p>\n
Stories like Alex\u2019s inspire us to continue our efforts in creating inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive. We\u2019re so happy to have you as part of the Dogtopia family, Alex!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"