In honor of National Developmental Disability Employment Awareness Month, we are thrilled to share that our client, Dominique, has landed not one, but two jobs! Dominique was struggling to find employment when she came to Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) in July. With the unwavering support of TMI Supported Employment Associate Division Manager Sonia Lopez, Dominique quickly found herself on a path to employment.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Hope
During Dominique's intake with TMI, she expressed frustration about her prolonged job search, noting that she had been struggling to secure interviews or job offers for several months. Dominique was eager to find employment and felt stressed by the lack of opportunities. She identified the interview process as her primary challenge, acknowledging that she was unsure how to navigate interviews effectively and wanted to better prepare for them.
TMI assisted Dominique in preparing for interviews by conducting practice sessions and providing guidance on what employers expect during the interview process, including what to say and what to avoid. Dominique began to feel more confident in herself as she improved her interview skills.
Job Development and Rapid Success
Sonia began actively job developing with Dominique, helping her to apply to various positions that aligned with her skills and interests. Within just a week, Dominique received two job offers: one as a caregiver at Noah Homes and the other as a Funeral Service Assistant at Glen Abbey Memorial Park and Mortuary. The speed at which these offers came in was a testament to Dominique's qualifications and TMI's effective job development strategies.
Financial Support and Resources
To help Dominique prepare for her new roles, TMI provided crucial financial assistance and resources. Dominique received Julie Casey Honorary Funds for $200 to help with the purchase of work clothes for both jobs. Additionally, she visited TMI's employment "Clothing Boutique" to select appropriate attire for her new positions.
Finding Joy and Fulfillment
“Growing up was a bit difficult for me," said Dominique. "I hated going to therapy and speech, but as I got older I took a turn and moved away from home. I went to college to try education on my own without help from my parents. I wanted to train myself to be independent."
Despite the challenges she has faced, Dominique remains optimistic and finds joy in her life. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, watching her daughters play sports, and pursuing her own interests.
Dominique's hopes for the future include working more hours and becoming more skilled in her role at the funeral home, where she feels she can make a meaningful difference in people's lives during difficult times. She is eager to continue learning and growing in her career.
A Bright Future Ahead
“My hopes for Dominique's future are that she continues to grow in confidence and further develop her skills in her current role, potentially expanding her responsibilities and hours as she desires," said Sonia. "I also hope she maintains her passion for providing comfort to grieving families, which is a unique strength she brings to her job. Her warm personality and friendliness, combined with her desire to help others, make her well-suited for supporting people through the grieving process. Her compassionate nature will continue to be a great asset in her role."
With TMI's continued support, Dominique is well-positioned for a bright future. Her new employment opportunities provide her with financial stability and a sense of accomplishment. TMI's commitment to empowering individuals like Dominique is evident in our unwavering support and dedication to our clients.
Congratulations, Dominique! We know that the best is yet to come for you!
TMI is honored to say that we currently have 177 employment partners and 276 clients working in paid employment settings. Thank you to our employment partners for giving our clients the opportunity to shine!
(Thank you to Sonia for contributing to this story and for all that you do to transform the lives of our clients.)
It is the mission of the Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) Supported Employment program to support, enhance and educate the general workforce population on the contributing value of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through personalized integration, training and advocacy, TMI helps to develop the capabilities and strengths of all people desiring to work.
Founded in 1981, Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and veterans with disabilities. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living Services and Family Support Services. To stay connected with us, follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion. Please consider making a donation to assist us with transforming lives for many more years to come. We thank you in advance! Tax ID# 33-0185759
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