Autistic and neurodiverse individuals continue to face significantly lower employment rates than their peers. This gap can be reinforced when interventions focus primarily on perceived deficits rather than strengths, sometimes unintentionally undermining confidence and self‑advocacy. KF‑Stride® (Kessler Foundation Strength Identification and Expression) is a research‑backed, online program designed to help autistic and neurodiverse youth and adults prepare for meaningful employment. Grounded in positive psychology, KF‑Stride focuses on identifying and communicating strengths, building confidence, and developing practical workplace skills, supporting participants as they set goals, navigate interviews, and succeed at work.
Having seen firsthand the strengths and potential of neurodiverse individuals, we created KF-Stride. This program not only prepares them for employment but also empowers them to recognize and communicate their abilities.
Scientists at Kessler Foundation’s Center for Autism Research are advancing understanding of autism through innovative, interdisciplinary studies. The Center develops accessible, evidence‑based interventions for children, adolescents, and adults on the autism spectrum, with particular focus on the critical transition from adolescence to adulthood, when support, confidence, and opportunity are especially vital.
Our Scientists Studying Autism
A Strength-Based Tool to Help Autistic Adults Find Employment
This fully remote study evaluates the effectiveness of our intervention designed to improve job interview skills in adults with autism.
Your Support Drives Change
Giving to Kessler Foundation brings new, positive possibilities to children, adolescents, and adults on the autism spectrum.
Interview Skills Boost Holly Coviello's Confidence Despite Autism
For 18-year-old Holly Coviello and her mother, the typical questions about finding employment have loomed large. Holly is autistic.
Bianchino Family, Bridging Perspectives in Autism
Inspired by their daughter Kira and her journey on the autism spectrum, Melissa and Tony Bianchino are driving impactful change...
Nadine and Nassan Change the Status Quo for Autism
Nadine Wright-Arbubakrr, whose son Nassan is on the autism spectrum, experienced first-hand the lack of accessible, affordable resources in her community.
William Lands a Summer Job
Potential employers ask, “Why are you the right person for the job?” Understanding your strengths helps, especially for those on the spectrum...
Carla Vicari, Autism Meets Mother's Intuition
Sixteen years ago, when I found out I was pregnant, my husband and I were overjoyed. When we learned we were having twins, our joy more than doubled.
Our Autism Scientists in Action
