Derek

Derek is a 19-year-old young man with autism from Northern Virginia. A high school graduate, Derek has been involved with many recent programs to assist with his independence and employability including job training and peer mentoring programs. Derek also volunteers at a program for people with disabilities at his church where he helps with socialization and creative activities. He received a Macbook Air from The Eric Fund to assist with job training and applications as well as education to work toward his goal of becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) working with people with disabilities. The computer will help Derek foster greater independence and self-sufficiency as he navigates this exciting next chapter of his life and his mission to help others.