Overcoming Challenges for Successful Employment

On April 23, 2015, resulting from an invitation from his Ramsey County case manager, Jordan W. spoke at the State Employment Leadership Network meeting about his challenges and ultimate success in obtaining employment.

Previously, Jordan had been a part of the Bridges to Employment program and had challenges securing employment after graduation from high school last June due to his mild mental retardation and oppositional defiant disorder. After coming to Dungarvin as part of the Legacy acquisition and receiving customized employment supports through Dungarvin’s discovery process, Jordan was hired at Chuck & Don’s in Mahtomedi on March 17, 2015 as a Maintenance Team Member. Chuck & Don’s is a pet warehouse and Jordan does cleaning, restocking, and greeting customers and their pets. He’s enjoying his part-time employment of two days a week for four hours each day; however, Jordan is ambitious and plans to increase his hours as opportunities arise at his current job, or pursue other employment opportunities.

Jordan at Chuck & Don’s