Alonna is a superstar of Vocational Rehabilitation’s (VR) On-the-Job Training program and a role model for young people with disabilities everywhere. She worked hard, learned new job skills, and did such a good job with her training that museum management decided to make it permanent. With the On-the-Job Training program, VR reimburses employers for the trainee’s salary, training costs, and any accommodations needed. It’s a win-win situation for both the business owner and the employee.

For Alonna’s On-the-Job Training, VR provided the accommodations she needed a special desk, laser printer and special file cabinet - so she could work more comfortably. VR also supplied transportation so Alonna could get to and from work each day.

Shelly is pleased with how well Alonna is doing in her new job. “She is very eager to learn and accepts her responsibilities well,” says Shelly. “She is progressing and a team player. Whenever we need something, she is right there.”

Alonna is very happy to be working at the museum and is grateful to VR Counselor Carol Weinberg and Employment Specialist Christy Brown for helping her reach her goal of becoming employed.

Christy served as Alonna’s job coach and offered support and assistance to help her adjust to her new job. She also continues to check on Alonna to make sure things are going smoothly. “Alonna strives to be independent,” says Christy. “She has grown tremendously and gained real life skills at her job. She’s now able to handle more things as they come up, and her self-esteem has really grown.”

Carol believes that Alonna’s maturity and motivation helped her succeed, and she is proud of her progress. When asked why she works as a VR counselor, Carol replies, “I enjoy working with students. I feel you can make quite an impression on the youth in helping them achieve their goals.” And Alonna agrees.

On another note, Alonna has brought new awareness to museum staff and volunteers. Through her everyday interactions with the museum volunteers, Alonna educates them about disabilities and what it means to use a wheelchair every day. Alonna calls her job “rewarding” and enjoys helping at the events and meeting new people. She hopes to continue working at the Children’s Museum for many years to come.

In celebration of Disability Employment Awareness Month, VR recently honored Great Explorations Children’s Museum as an Outstanding Employer. Great Explorations Children’s Museum was chosen for their commitment to training and hiring individuals with disabilities and helping them become independent members of their community.

Florida’s Vocational Rehabilitation program is committed to helping people with disabilities become part of America’s workforce. Our employer-focused website, FLJobConnections.com, allows businesses to search at no charge for employees who are ready to go to work, as well as to post available jobs. VR has 111 offices across Florida, and last year helped 3,878 Floridians with significant disabilities find or keep a job. For more information about VR and its services, call (800) 451-4327 or visit Rehabworks.org.

Chris first learned about VR and how they help people with disabilities find employment when VR Counselor Carol Weinberg visited his high school. Carol worked with Chris, offering counseling and guidance to help Chris develop and reach his career goals.

After he graduated from high school, Chris joined the extended transition program at the Pinellas Technical Education Center. During this time, Carol paired him with Job Coach Christy Brown, who began a full-fledged search to help Chris find the right job. “He had a little bit of trouble finding the right fit,” says Carol. “But he’s matured quite a bit during the last year and a half.”

Law Clerk seemed to be the best type of job for Chris’ interests and skills, but no one was hiring. They were not deterred. Christy decided that Chris would be a good candidate for VR’s On-the-Job Training program, and Carol agreed. With the On-the-Job Training program, VR reimburses employers for the trainee’s salary, training costs, and any accommodations needed. It’s a win-win situation for both the business owner and the employee. Christy knew that if Chris could get some of the skills training he lacked, he would be a welcome addition to any company’s staff.

The Law Office of James E. Hack agreed to give Chris a chance, so last fall he began his on-the-job training as a law clerk. Carol saw a major improvement in Chris during his training period. “He did very well. It was a good fit for him, and they really improved his self-esteem. He became more confident and became aware of the fact that – I really can work,” says Carol. Chris made such a lasting impression with the firm they hired him as a part time clerk after he completed his training in December. His supervisor, Amber Kotowski, is pleased with Chris’ progress. “He’s always here and with a smile on his face,” she says. “He’s willing to do anything that’s asked of him, and he gets it done in a timely manner.”

Chris enjoys his job and hopes to continue working for the firm for a long time. “Hopefully, down the line, the company will get bigger and I can work more hours,” he says. He thinks very highly of Carol and Christy. “If anyone ever needs a VR person, I would recommend Carol,” says Chris. And, “Christy was always there for me if I had any questions about my job. She always kept me on my toes.”

The law firm did not need to make any accommodations for Chris. “He does his job so well,” says Amber. “Chris’ disability has not been a factor in his employment at all.” Many employers are unaware that most job accommodations for individuals with disabilities cost less than $500, with the majority being free. For Amber, working with Chris through training and now employment has been a very fulfilling experience. “He loves working here, and we love having him. It’s been a special experience participating in VR’s On-the-Job Training program.” Chris definitely agrees.

October is Disability Employment Awareness Month, and in celebration, VR is honoring outstanding employers who have made a difference in the working lives of people with disabilities. Chris will be a featured speaker at the event on Wednesday, October 6 from 8:30 - 10:00 a.m., at Nova 535 in St. Petersburg.

Florida’s Vocational Rehabilitation program is committed to helping people with disabilities become part of America’s workforce. Our employer-focused website, FLJobConnections.com, allows businesses to search at no charge for employees who are ready to go to work, as well as to post available jobs. VR has 111 offices across Florida, and last year helped 3,878 Floridians with significant disabilities find or keep a job. For more information about VR and its services, call (800) 451-4327 or visit Rehabworks.org.