Genuine. Empathetic. Fun.
Residential Resources; Direct Support Professional Hometown: Chazy, NY Age: 35 Education: Associates Degree in Liberal Arts, Clinton Community College
With a gentle and authentic aura, Eric Ashline brings a passion and dedication to the care of autistic teenagers and young adults. His commitment to an underserved population can only be rivaled by his commitment to his family. Eric easily engages people in conversation, especially thoughtful of non-traditional education and training routes, and mindful that learners come in all ages.
How do you contribute to the culture of your company? I care deeply about the autistic teenager and young adult in my care and I work constantly to improve their life skills. Our mission is to enable these special needs individuals to reach their full capacity as functioning members of society.
What are you doing to make a difference in your community? I tell anyone who will listen, about the special needs of autistic children and adults and why we, collectively, can make a positive difference in their lives.
What is the single most important characteristic for success? Communication.
What is your biggest professional success? The acknowledgement of management that my work as a caregiver has made a significantly positive difference in the lives of my clients and their families
What important lesson have you learned in your career? The critical importance of being patient when the person opposite you is angry, frustrated, sad, or discouraged.
What is your dream job? I’m currently in my dream job and I don’t even get a paycheck for it! It is being a husband to the woman I love and being the best father I can to our two beautiful children.
What is the biggest risk you have ever taken? Going back to college when I turned 30. I never cared for school but realized I had to further my education.
What is something that no one would guess about you? That my career in the autistic field all started out with my wife roping me into her horse equestrian business (Horses In Motion) seven years ago where a majority of the clients were autistic.
Write a note to your younger self… Dear Eric; Keep things simple, stay focused and don’t sweat the small things in life.
What can the North Country do to make this area more appealing to a younger generation? Offer post high school, skills-training in a wide variety of trades and occupations at little or no cost, to people of ALL ages.
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