Autism is a trait – not a debilitation

Your pledge helped Tyrin lead an independent and rewarding life

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Name: Tyrin

Resident of East St. Louis, IL

Agency: Illinois Center for Autism, Fairview Heights, IL

Life challenge: When Tyrin was 2 ½ years old, he was diagnosed with a learning disability. His mother quickly enrolled him at the Illinois Center for Autism, one of three United Way agencies that support children and adults with autism or Asperger's Syndrome. 

Autism is a developmental disorder that can severely damage a person’s ability to function socially and communicate with others. It can also make traditional education difficult. Thanks to ICA and  the United Way of Greater St. Louis, Tyrin has better options.

“If it hadn’t been for ICA, I think Tyrin would have been lost in the shuffle of the world,” said Mia Stroter, vocational services director at ICA.

How United Way helped: Tyrin attended school at ICA until he was 21. He then moved into the adult services branch of ICA – a restaurant called Pasta Fare.

Pasta Fare is one of two retail business run by ICA. The businesses provide vocational training and employment options while building self-esteem, communication and social skills.

“If it wasn’t for United Way, if it wasn’t for Pasta Fare, I feel I wouldn’t have the confidence to work anywhere,” Tyrin said. “I’ve got a plan for my life; I’ve got a dream that I’m going to achieve.”

The conviction in his voice is unmistakable.

Good news result: Tyrin is now well on his way to his dream.

“Pasta Fare really changed my life,” he said. “It allowed me to prepare for college. I go to the University of Missouri – St. Louis, where I’m studying business. My dream would be to run my own restaurant.”

Give today. Help today. Your contribution to the United Way will help lives throughout our community, like Tyrin’s, be changed forever.