A Day In the Life: Heather’s Story

Employment Resources is a vocational program designed to assist individuals in becoming successful in competitive employment.

As all situations are unique, the Employment Specialists are trained to adapt and think creatively to assist an individual in the work place. In some instances, support may only be needed for a week or two. At other times, it may take a few months of support to help the individual reach a satisfactory level of independence.

Heather has been working at Employment Resources for the past five years. During this time, she has gained valuable work skills, which have allowed her to secure a competitive job in the community. Employment Specialists employed through Employment Resources play a pivotal role in an individual’s vocational development. The individual is ultimately the one responsible for being successful and the Employment Specialists/Job Coaches serve as a means to achieve that success. From exploring interests, to 1:1 training, to mediating employer’s concerns, the Job Coaches remain involved to provide each individual with an equal chance at competitive employment.

Here’s Heather’s story:

Heather began attending Employment Resources in 2005 through Fitchburg High School. Heather came with very limited vocational experience. After working within our facility based program, Heather was given opportunities through evaluations and assessments, which enabled her to gain the self-esteem and confidence that was needed to secure competitive employment. Through job coaching and follow up services, Heather was hired at Matson Community Services in a janitorial position. Heather accepted this position with great enthusiasm and excitement. Although she has only been employed a short time, Heather has quickly become part of the team.

Her second week on the job, the receptionist called out sick. While Heather was there performing her janitorial duties, she was asked to fill in as receptionist. Due to her receptionist training within Employment Resources, she was able to step in and fulfill those duties for the day. This is an example of many of the success stories Employment Resources has to offer. Heather now has the ability not only to utilize her skills in janitorial but also the ability to utilize her interpersonal skills and vibrant personality while answering a multi line telephone system.

Heather has grown in so many ways since she has taken on this position. Heather expresses on a daily basis how this has helped her to become more responsible not only professionally but personally as well. Job Coaching is just one of the many services that Employment Resources offers to individuals seeking employment. Services like these are the ones that make a significant difference in people’s life that lead to success and longevity professionally.

About the Author: Tracey Hecker

Tracey Hecker has over 20 years working with a non profit agency. Her current position is Division Director for Vocational Services, a program that enables both students and adults to enter in to the world of work. Tracey has been instrumental in the development and growth of this program for over 10 years.