Give a shout for Elaine…..

Over a year ago, Job Squad began working with Elaine to find employment.  Through the “Discovery” process, we found that she likes keeping her immediate environment neat and clean.  She enjoys household tasks that many people take for granted.  After completing an Informational Interview at the Holiday Inn, Elaine was hired as a Laundry Assistant.  We did a Job Analysis of the laundry room position and determined which tasks Elaine was able to perform.  We were able to customize the position in areas where Elaine could do parts of tasks which ultimately assisted current staff to move on to other duties that were not getting completed.  


The middle of April 2013, Elaine was honored by the Management team and her co-workers at Holiday Inn for her one year of service.  She received a pin and recognition of her quality work.  Elaine stated that this is the first time she has worked this long in any position that she’s held. Her supervisors say that Elaine is a big help in the laundry room and because of her skills and interests in other areas of the hotel, she has begun to branch out in additional job duties. Over the past year, it has not always been an easy road for Elaine to maintain employment, but through the support of her employer, service providers, and family and friends, she has made this significant accomplishment. Elaine’s family and friends have confirmed that Elaine has developed self-confidence and independence because of her employment over the past year.  Elaine’s experience is proof that employment works for individuals with disabilities and can be a positive change in a person’s life. 
 

Social Networking…..

Part of utilizing the “Discovery” process is social networking.  When we become acquainted with a job seeker, we learn about who they are connected with in the community.  We find out where they shop, where they go to church, who were their teachers, who are their family members and friends, and what businesses are located in their neck of the woods.  We as Career Counselors also have our network of family and friends and through all these social connections we find businesses that provide services where our job seekers are interested in employment.  Once we do an informational interview, a decision is made as to whether the job seeker might be interested in doing a work trial experience at the business. 

 

Connie is a woman who enjoys shopping for earrings, watches, and necklaces, along with purses and shoes.  She pretty much enjoys anything to do with clothing and jewelry!  We found a local high end consignment shop that sales clothing, jewelry, purses, and shoes – right up Connie’s alley!!  Connie has been doing a work trial experience with the shop for a couple of months now.  Every day when she leaves the business, she says “I love my job”.  

As Connie’s work progresses, we will keep you updated on some other services that are being considered in order for Connie to obtain full time employment with this business.  Stay tuned…….