Supported Employment client story: Finding a role that is ‘meaningful and satisfying’
Jackson* was a client in the LifeWorks NW Enhanced Adult Mental Health Services program for schizoaffective and bipolar disorder. After a serious on-the-job injury, he experienced a setback. He took some time to focus on his physical and mental health and felt ready to focus on a new direction. As a LifeWorks NW client, he was able to access the Supported Employment program for help.
Finding meaning at work
"My goal was to find a job that I find meaningful and satisfying," says Jackson. "What I worked on was setting those goals, planning ahead, and mentally preparing myself to reenter the workforce."
Jackson was looking for a sense of purpose and way to give back to his community. Working with Max Joyce, Supported Employment Specialist, Jackson learned how to access education programs available to him, navigate benefits, and build confidence when applying for a position.
"Jobs don’t have to be horrible," says Jackson. "I learned that I can have a work/life balance and still have energy at the end of the day to do things I enjoy."
Growing and gaining independence
With his new skills, Jackson took on a crew member position at a store and quickly worked his way up to become Assistant Manager. He now aims to continue to grow and move into upper management.
The Supported Employment program helped Jackson gain independence so he could see his future differently than before. “I will be employed and more self-sufficient,” he says. “I have things I am working toward. I want to make it to Department Manager, then reevaluate and see if there is anything else I would like to do.”
*not his real name
SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT AT LIFEWORKS NW
LifeWorks NW's Supported Employment program provides a full range of vocational assistance to adults and older teens living with severe mental illness and having a desire to work. Learn more about our programs by calling 503-645-9010 or by filling out our contact form.
