America’s Workforce – Empowering All
Reflecting a commitment to a robust and competitive American labor force, the 2018 National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) theme is “America’s Workforce – Empowering All!” 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 once again celebrating this event with a month of employment success stories. Each day we will be posting another success story about someone who is contributing to their community through employment. For those who have requested to receive our employment announcements, you will receive the link to the story in your mailbox. We invite you to join us as we celebrate the successes of people with disabilities working in our communities!
Journey Towards Independence
October 13 – Jonathan R.
Jon R is a self-advocate who is working in his dream job. He is achieving his dream of full independence by showing determination and true grit.
His main goal was to get off subsidies. Jon is now working full-time in airline hydraulics and no longer receives support. His goal all along was to fire all of his supports…. and he did!
We are joyful! We had no doubt he could do it with the focus and strength he showed in his journey toward full-time employment! Well done, Jon! #EmploymentFirstPa#NationalDisabilityAwarenessMonth#EverydayLife #successstory #underdog
Check out this slide show about Jon’s journey.
Transcript for Jon’s slideshow:
Title Slide: Introducing Jon R with quote from Robert Brault, “The road to success is not a path you find but a trail you blaze.”
Slide 2: [Coke bottle with Share a Diet Coke with Jonathan on label] “Jon’s dream was total independence. “
Slide 3: [Picture of Jonathan with paper currency in hand] “We tried many different jobs – some good”
Slide 4: [Picture of Jonathan with Christmas Greeting Card in hand] “…and some not so good.”
Slide 5: [Picture of Jonathan completing a form] “Then one day the call came. His job. His way.”
Slide 6: [Jonathan in workroom with gloves and face mask on for work] “He could live independently and get off subsidies!!
Slide 7: [Jonathan in another work area, with gloves and face mask on] “Today, he picks the required parts for airline hydraulics! Stem career, anyone?”
Slide 8: [Picture of Jonathan by wall with Airline and the company logo on it] “He has his dream job with people who mean a lot to him. A real every day life.”
Slide 9: [Jonathan sitting on water dock platform] “Today, Jon is so independent he no longer needs support! He has achieved every goal we set. Join us in wishing Jon every success.”
~ Submitted by RHD – ID8