Rejected from Big Brothers Big Sisters

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I just got a letter today that I was rejected from mentoring a child. I work with people with disabilities and am going to school to enhance my career as a direct service professional. But, during the interview I said I had Aspergers thinking that would make me a positive candidate because I know what it is like to live with challenge. I had been in Big Brothers Big Sisters before and I think I misread some social cues and wanted to spend too much time with the child, or took the kid to my house because I was told that was fine. Nobody will tell me the reason, but I think me having aspergers and the misreading of social cues cost a child from having an excellent mentor. Heck, I take kids out into the community for a living. I am shocked and appalled, and I think it is because I am a guy who went through a rough time where I went from job to job for a time but now I have been stable and working hard for over a year. I am doing the best I ever have and I was willing to give my time to help a disadvantaged youth. So sad

First, I'm sorry you were disappointed. It hurts to feel that you have a lot to offer and not be appreciated.

I'm a little unclear on what exactly you think the deciding issue was, however. Do you think you were rejected specifically because you have Aspergers, or because your behavior in the previous case was mis-interpreted as being inappropriate? If the first, you may be able to contact the home office of the charity and request a reappraisal. If the second, well, they have to consider the children first and make their determinations based upon a very conservative estimate of the fitness of mentors, so you're probably out of luck.

I don't have asperger syndrom or autism and applied to BBBS. I'm great with kids
and had a BB growing up. Despite coming from a dysfunctional family, I've molded
my mind and spirit to be empathetic and kind towards all people, and don't
understand how my application was rejected. I've been self employed for
a few years and haven't filed my income taxes, and wondering if that's the
deciding factor in their decision.

@Misssystem: Good for you. Now, how does that shed light on Bubzy's situation?

@Bubzy: I'm sorry. AS is a vastly misunderstood syndrome. It seems that most Enties do not understand that having AS does not mean that we are a threat or danger to anyone else. Nor does it mean that we are too mentally challenged to be capable of doing our jobs. Unfortunately, a lot of ignorance and prejudice exist, and sometimes the best ways to deal with having AS is to remain in the closet until after we have established our reputations as capable professionals in our chosen fields. I have not "come out" as an Aspie, and I see no need to do so in the future.

Next time, try again in a different city, use your middle name, and don't mention AS.

Good luck!

Ummmm.... Wow that is weird. You should call and find out WHY they rejected you.

Here in the PNW area, I started an actual chapter for ASD adults to mentor ASD kids. It turns out that BBBS cannot find enough NT people who want to deal with the ASD kids.

I am thinking that something isn't right with your story. (not saying you are lying but perhaps that someone screwed up or some information is missing)