Celebrating Our Successes!
Reflecting the important role that different perspectives play in workforce success, this year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) theme is “Inclusion Drives Innovation.” Observed each October, NDEAM celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities and educates about the value of a workforce inclusive of their skills and talents.
The Philadelphia “Employment 1st, Employment NOW!” Steering Committee is celebrating this year’s event with a month of employment success stories. Each day you will be receiving an email containing a new story about someone who is contributing to their community through employment. We invite you to join us as we celebrate their successes!
Keeping a Busy Life In Balance…
Emmett is motivated, dedicated, and hard-working – and he sure does keep busy! Emmett works two jobs that fill up 6 days of his busy week. He proudly states that he used to work 7 days per week, but decided that having a day off was necessary to maintain his social life. 4 days per week, Emmett suits up and heads to Holiday Inn Express in Center City where he works as a Bell Person. Since May of 2013, he has been providing guests with a warm welcome, assisting with luggage, and offering information about the facilities and local attractions. Personable and friendly by nature, Emmett’s kind demeanor lends itself perfectly to the hospitality industry. Emmett initially received support from a job coach to become acclimated to the job, but quickly learned the ropes and is now completely independent in this position.
Last year, Emmett came to CIS with the request of finding a second job. With an affinity for the arts, he was seeking employment that would allow him to be more involved in Philadelphia’s bustling arts scene. In March of 2016, Emmett was offered an opportunity at Globe Dye Works, an artist and artisan’s space in the Port Richmond neighborhood. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, Emmett arrives at the complex bright and early to tackle his duties as a Maintenance Assistant. Emmett is responsible for maintaining the grounds and the high traffic common areas, as well as delivering mail to the tenants. He has made a name for himself at the complex. His work is highly appreciated by the owner and tenants alike. He enjoys interacting with the artisans and learning about their various crafts.
Work-life balance is tricky. We all strive to find employment that keeps us involved in our passions while still allowing room for our personal lives. Through hard work, determination, and always staying positive, Emmett has struck that elusive balance with two enriching jobs at which he excels.
~ Submitted by CIS