Finding His Fit: Jeshua’s Independent Living Journey Through Step Ahead

At the Center for Independent Living, we try to find the perfect program for each of our consumers.  One of these consumers is Jeshua who has found his fit with our Step Ahead program as a Deaf consumer. Jeshua was first recommended CIL and our programs by one of his teachers, who explained our on-the-job training programs to him. Through Deaf Voices, Jeshua was able to get set up in one of our work training programs and start on his independent living journey.  

Jeshua is a standout employee in his workplace. He is always there to support his team members and excited to take on new tasks. According to Jeshua, his favorite parts about his current job are stocking and learning how to make new foods. So far, he has learned how to make coffee, pizza, and baked goods. Jeshua works hard to keep his workplace clean and organized, he is always proactive about getting tasks done, he makes sure to keep up with stocking, and he always jumps at the chance to help anyone who needs it. Jeshua’s manager loves having him around. One way that she effectively communicates with Jeshua at work is by setting him up with a written list of responsibilities at the beginning of the workday. She considers Jeshua to be a great worker, who always completes the tasks laid out before him. She also noted that he has a great memory for customers and fits in well at his workplace.  

Jeshua feels that CIL as an organization has supported him greatly in his independent living journey. To Jeshua, living independently means being able to do things on his own, but also being proactive and being able to help others. Jeshua’s experience shows that living independently can be a possibility for anyone with a little support from those around them. Jeshua loves his job, and his workplace is better for having him there. CIL plans to continue helping individuals like Jeshua find the best places for them to live independently and thrive, and we can’t wait to see what Jeshua does next.