Obtaining and maintaining a job can be challenging and daunting for individuals with intellectual disability barriers. It requires a great deal of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. However, the rewards of a fulfilling career and financial independence are obtainable for everyone, no matter their barrier! With the proper support, training, and resources, individuals with intellectual barriers can achieve their career goals, proving to the world that they are just as capable and valuable as anyone else. And that’s where we meet Andrew.
Working With Barriers
Andrew is known for his hardworking attitude and his willingness to always help. But his helping hand doesn’t end at Goodwill. Andrew’s dedication to his self-ethics is evident in his role at Hy-Vee, where he’s been an employee for the past three years!
“I’ve learned how to get along with people at times when I may be experiencing different moods. I’ve learned to do new things as I go along with the job,” Andrew said.
His responsibilities include bagging groceries, collecting shopping carts, stocking shelves, maintaining cleanliness, and more.
Individuals with intellectual disability barriers often face significant challenges in obtaining and maintaining employment. According to the National Council on Disabilities, only 19.1% of individuals with disability barriers are employed, compared to 66.3% without. These barriers can be attributed to various factors, including a lack of accommodations, discrimination, and limited access to training and resources. However, with the proper support and resources, individuals with intellectual disability barriers can overcome these roadblocks and succeed in the workplace.
How Goodwill Encouraged Andrew
Andrew came to Goodwill intending to make new friends and improve his communication and socialization skills. He joined our Day Services Program. The Day Services Program is a comprehensive program accredited by CARF that focuses on developing essential life skills for those with disability barriers. These skills range from emotional management, communication, healthy living habits, money management, and many more that support everyday life. If you were to meet Andrew today, you would never know that he needed support with communication. He has made significant progress because he actively participates, has a positive attitude, and volunteers whenever possible. Andrew enjoys volunteering at the local homeless shelter. “It’s a nice place to give food to people who need it… I like to help other people,” he said.
“Andrew is one of the leaders in the room. He’s always there to help when needed and has carried that skill throughout other avenues of his life. He’s more outgoing and social since he joined the program,” said Bre Holland, his Day Services Instructor.
Furthering Goodwill’s Mission
Andrew went from being shy to a helpful hand and leader, strengthening his abilities at Day Services. His helpful attitude puts everyone at ease. When asked what to tell new Day Services Program participants, Andrew said, “It’s going to be okay. You’ll make new friends, and eventually, you’ll get the hang of this new program. I was also nervous when I first came here, but I overcame my fears and worked towards making new friends and interacting with others.”
To learn more about the Day Services Program or other programs that Goodwill of Central Iowa offers, please visit our Programs Overview blog!
