Success Stories
Adam’s Story: From Lost Hope to Leadership
Adam sits in his new office, the phone ringing off the hook. “What I do matters,” Adam says proudly. “People rely on me at work. I have skills [...]
Alex’s Story: Full-Time Success
As of October 2024, Alex is celebrating one year of employment at Cabela’s! This milestone represents more than just time - it’s a first for Alex and a testament to his resilience and personal growth. Fresh out of high school, Alex had never held a job before and knew he wanted support entering the working world. "I wanted a job,” Alex says. “OWL didn’t just help me get one, they helped me figure out how everything works, like interviews. Things school never really prepared me for.” Alex partnered with Employment Coordinator Jessica to build a resume, practice interviewing, and participate in work [...]
Transformative Journey of Asyrian Jackson: Empowering Success with OWL’s Skilled Trade Academy
Asyrian Jackson, a determined and enthusiastic individual, embarked on a transformative journey with Opportunity for Work and Learning (OWL) and the Skilled Trade Academy. In an interview, Asyrian shared his initial discovery of the program through Waypoint, with the help of his Aunt Jerry, who recognized his strong desire to find meaningful employment. As a newcomer to the construction industry, Asyrian admitted to feeling nervous and anxious. However, his passion for hands-on work fueled his determination to explore the possibilities offered by OWL's Skilled Trade Academy. As he delved into the program, his interest in the craft grew, driving him to push [...]
Jeff Holt’s journey to maintain independent living
After years of unstable employment, Jeff Holt was looking for a job that would add to his ability to maintain independent living and his quality of life. With the assistance of Employment Coordinator Andy Cotter, who assessed his skills and needs, identified jobs, and assisted him in obtaining a job, he has been employed for over four months as a custodian cleaning common areas for University of Kentucky. He says that he is really happy to find a job that he enjoys doing, and he hopes to eventually work full time.
Community Living Supports helps people like Liz connect with others
Liz is an outgoing person who loves connecting with others. OWL supports Liz through Community Living Supports which emphasizes meaningful connections in the community and promotes independence at home. With the support of her Direct Support Professional, Liz has access to community groups, volunteer opportunities, and resources in her neighborhood. Liz enjoys writing letters to stay in touch with pen pals, so we help her improve her writing skills ensuring she effectively communicates her thoughts and feelings with her friends. Personal wellness and fitness are also important to Liz, so we help her learn new, great tasting and healthy recipes to help [...]
Dairy Queen found a valuable asset in Heather because of her commitment and willingness to learn
Heather is a valued employee at Dairy Queen in Frankfort. OWL supports Heather through Supported Employment, and assists Heather to advocate for herself on the job including mastering new, valuable skills. We also evaluate progress toward long-term goals and encourage future career planning and growth. With the help of OWL, she honed her customer care skills learned to operate a cash register, maintain the eat-in dining area, and assist with food preparation. Because of Heather's willingness to learn and grow as an employee, she is now a trainer of new employees. Her hard work and growing responsibilities maker her a valuable employee, [...]
After discovering her strengths, Crystal found a job she loves
Crystal struggles from mental illness, anxiety and isolation due to the adversity she has experienced throughout her life. After maintaining her therapy appointments, she discovered she was more than capable of being a cashier, and found the perfect spot at the Red Mile as a Cage Cashier. Crystal loves her job and has adapted well to working with the public.
Because of her motivation and dedication, Crystal proved everyone’s misconceptions of her to be wrong
Crystal has been employed for over a year at Family Dollar as a sales associate. When she entered services with OWL, she really wanted a job in customer service, but was told that because of her disability, she would never be able to do anything. However, she was motivated to be employed in a stable job earning enough income to get a car and support herself. Her work supervisor said that she has considering been considering Crystal for an assistant management position. Crystal Begley has now spread her wings and has taken on a second job at Rose’s.
Despite his limited work experience, Burlington gave Edgar a chance, and he is still going strong
Edgar is a 62-year-old veteran that could not remember his work history which appeared to be limited. He said he worked in an Easter Seals sheltered workshop and worked as a chauffeur. Edgar has struggled is whole life with mental health issues, which affected his ability to obtain and maintain employment throughout his life. Employment Coordinator, Andy Cotter assisted Edgar in obtaining a job at Burlington Coat Factory that he has maintained for over a year. At Burlington Coat Factory, he brings out merchandise and stocks shelves in the Houseware Department. Edgar is very reliable and dependable. A coworker, Lakeisha, said Edgar [...]