Employees with autism at WKU Bookstore break the stigma

BOWLING GREEN, Ky-A duo of unique individuals are making a difference on the campus of Western Kentucky University, one bookstore transaction at a time.

“It’s a pretty decent job around here because I like to interact with other people,” said Noah Thomas. 

Holly and Noah are both employees at the WKU Bookstore. They both have autism. 

“I want to prove that people with disabilities like me can still work just like a regular person can,” said Noah. 

They are employed through LifeWorks. 

“I actually wanted to work here and through the program lifeworks I was actually able to get this dream job!” said Holly Fortier. 

LifeWorks is a two-year program for autistic young adults and others with learning differences that prepares them for employment and living on their own. 

“We want to leave after their time at LifeWorks with the skills and confidence to go wherever they want to and live a fully independent life,” said LifeWorks Director of Personal Development Hendrix Brakefield. 

Holly and Noah have many responsibilities at the bookstore from ringing up customers and organizing inventory to learning new products… and it keeps them busy! 

“When something new comes out, I want to learn all about it so I can understand how it works,” said Noah. 

The pair hopes to inspire others with autism and show that you can do anything you set your mind to. 

“With autism it’s best not to think about it as a roadblock like I can’t do this….we can lead by example,” said Holly.