Keep Going, Keep Growing! The Journey of Jason

After three years of employment at his first job, Jason has a lot to be proud of. Like many young adults who experienced virtual school during the pandemic, he struggled with motivation. But once things opened up again, Jason had opportunities to engage in his community through volunteering, and then job development. We talked about his journey:

You were a student during all the Covid shutdowns – what was it like having to participate in school remotely? I felt unmotivated in online school making it difficult to engage.
What volunteer work experience did you do through the Community Transition Program? On top of having the resources to get volunteer work experience at a middle school library, I was taught how to be an adult & be responsible in life.
Why did you decide to utilize an employment specialist when it was time to look for a job? I needed someone to show me the way to get a supported employment job through Vocational Rehabilitation.
What was that process like? I did a couple informational interviews, one towards a data entry position and another towards a food service position at a restaurant. I went with the food service position instead.
You have been employed at your first job for just about three years! Congratulations! Yes, it’s great to get work experience on the job and even grow as a person in the meantime learning to be comfortable at the workplace. Working has impacted my life with me learning how to have professional relationships with co-workers and employers.
I would add that Jason has also developed great work habits and continues to “adult”! How did you navigate some of the challenges you deal with? Dealing with the anxiety of whether or not I’m doing my job right resulting in me being offered great guidance over time.

As an individual on the autism spectrum, Jason also wants to inspire others to keep going and keep growing. You really SHOULD be proud, and we are proud of you, too!

For more information on our employment services or to join our team, please contact Glenn Bishop: gbishop@dirksecc.com