Benjamin Woolf was part of one of the very first internships in Commonwealth Autism’s Career Readiness and Employment Program. From the moment you meet him, you’re greeted with a warm smile and a can-do attitude. On his first days at Good Foods Grocery, Ben was buzzing with a mix of excitement and nervous energy—ready to learn, eager to contribute, and determined to grow.
Throughout his internship, Ben’s confidence soared. He developed essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, alongside hands-on job skills such as stocking shelves, dishwashing, and working the register. Each new task helped build his independence and belief in himself.
Working on a Team at Natalie’s- A Taste of Lebanon
“I’m more open now, I think. I’ve got new friends.”
Benjamin Woolf, Graduate of the Career Readiness and Employment Program
Ben’s transformation continued when he began working at Natalie’s – A Taste of Lebanon, a beloved Lebanese restaurant in Bon Air. From the kitchen to customer interactions, his coworkers, supervisors, and customers quickly noticed the impact he was making—not just through his work, but through his positivity and dedication.
Manager at Natalie’s Lebanese Restaurant, Natalie Schwartz, expressed:
“Ben is really nice. I love working with him. He’s grown so much; he now communicates with everyone and takes on all his responsibilities, doing a fantastic job.”
Gaining Independence and Confidence Through Work
“Ben is completely independent now. He is able to follow the recipes, complete all of the steps, check-in with managers when he is unsure of what to do next, and is just completely independently employed. He’s so much fun to be around.”
Bradley Stabler, Job Coach for the Career Readiness and Employment Program
Ben’s journey is a powerful example of what happens when opportunity, support, and community come together. Through individualized coaching, real-world work experiences, and employer partnerships, Commonwealth Autism’s Career Readiness and Employment Program helps autistic and neurodivergent individuals build skills, confidence, and meaningful careers.
Learn More & Support the Program
The Career Readiness and Employment Program provides paid internships, job coaching, and employment pathways that empower individuals like Ben to thrive in the workplace and beyond.
Learn more about the Career Readiness and Employment Program
Support opportunities like Ben’s by making a donation today.
Your contribution helps expand programming, provide job coaching, and create inclusive employment opportunities across Virginia.
Together, we can continue creating pathways to independence, belonging, and meaningful work—one story at a time.
