Teri has been a participant at STEPS on Arthur (new window), a non-profit that creates opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities, since 2005.

“I have epilepsy and left side cerebral palsy, the medications I take to control my seizures make me tired and not sleep well sometimes. My left side can become sore and tight as well,” she explains. “When this happens my balance and my left hand does not work as good as my other side.”

Teri’s goals included finding work in her community and making some money. Her Community Employment Instructor at STEPS on Arthur referred her to Neil Squire’s Working Together program.

Teri was unsure of the skills she had to offer, and unsure about seeking employment. She discussed with her Neil Squire Job Developer about seeking supportive employers, the transferable skills she had, and her interests and abilities.

Throughout her time at STEPS on Arthur, she developed many skills in customer service, organization, and dealing with cash. While Teri had initially thought about looking for employment at businesses that work with animals, an opportunity arose at STEPS on Arthur’s New to You store as a Utility Worker.

After careful consideration, Teri decided to accept the job and has been excelling.

“[She] was offered a position working in the New to You every second weekend with great success,” says her Community Employment Instructor at STEPS on Arthur. “With that confidence and desire for continuous improvement, Teri expanded her cash training skills and is now employed in our Snook Café for an hour every day! We are very proud of such amazing accomplishments from Teri!”

Teri works the cash register in both jobs, puts out items to sell, tidies the store, and helps keep the tables clean in the café.

“It was a big step for me to accept a chance to try working. With this program, I really learned to take a chance and try new things and feel confident about myself,” Teri says.

“I really like my work! My co-workers and all my instructors, I feel safe and confident here. I want to say thank you to my Community Employment [Instructor] for showing me that I can do things that I might feel nervous about and my STEPS instructor, who sees good things for us all, and to Neil Squire for this program helping everyone in the things they want to try.”