The Autism Society Event and Education Recordings Archive

The Daniel Jordan Fiddle (DJF) Foundation, founded in 2002 as the nation's first autism organization to focus exclusively on adults, and the Autism Society of America (ASA), founded in 1965 as the nation's leading autism advocacy, resource and family support organization for all people diagnosed with autism, are proud to announce the inauguration of The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation Leader in Adult Autism Award. The honor will be awarded annually to an inspiring person, service provider or business in the field of adult autism at the Autism Society national conference. Linda J. Walder, DJF Foundation Founder and Executive Director says," It is a fitting tribute to my son Danny in whose memory our organization focuses on developing, advocating for and funding initiatives that benefit the diverse population of adults with autism. We are grateful that our longtime ASA colleagues who share our vision of showcasing success stories that inspire the community and the world."

Meet Matt Resnik of SMILE Biscotti®, first recipient of The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation Leader in Adult Autism Award, and learn how he and his family started a business from scratch, which now employs several people with autism and special needs. Since the business was created two and a half years ago, more than 150,000 biscotti have been sold on line and through a stable of retail clients, including Peet’s Coffee & Tea, Sprouts Farmers Market, among others. SMILE stands for Supporting Matt's Independent Living Enterprise. The business has not benefited from any government support or charitable contributions. Matt and his coworkers, with complementary abilities, are the most important ingredients. For more info, check out: www.SMILEBiscotti.com

Join Matt and his parents for the SMILE workshop and learn the nuts and bolts of starting and operating a home-based business, and opportunities for replication. Matt's accomplishments in forging his independent life as an entrepreneur coupled with the support of his family and community of friends will definitely create a lasting impression on all who attend.

Every step of the business has been manualized -- some of which will be shared during this workshop, along with these topics:

• New routines after 21: SMILE Biscotti started a few months after Matt’s high school graduation to help him learn new skills, be productive, connect with his community and enable others to do the same. While significantly impacted by autism, Matt has many qualities fueling his business success.
• Managing a home-based business: Since late 2013, SMILE biscotti have been primarily produced from home kitchens, thanks in part to AZ legislation passed to allow home bakeries and SARRC’s Rising Entrepreneurs program. Allowing an operating business to take over your home has its benefits and challenges. Learn how to manage both and also engage with the broader community.
• Marketing ability, not disability: SMILE Biscotti has enjoyed significant sales along with earned media exposure and active social media campaigns. Consistent messaging, creative approaches, networking with affinity groups are all part of the marketing mix leading to more sales.