Passion paves the way to employment

When Emma began with T.I.E.R. Support Services, she wanted to work at a paid position. Any paid job would be fine. “Doing what?” was the question.

In the past, Emma had worked at a local hotel, as a laundry aide. Her parents knew the owners and managers and the position offered a nice safe spot for Emma. However, it was not her passion.

The job coach started to get to know Emma as a full “discovery” was completed. During this process, they discovered that Emma loved to be around children and loved to swim. Emma has a long history swimming with the Special Olympics, winning many awards.

The job coach used a volunteer opportunity as part of the “discovery”. Emma volunteered in the childcare area at the community aquatic centre and was very successful with the children. Her job coach then contacted the aquatic centre to see if there may be any paid work which would be related.

After some discussion, the lead instructor came up with the idea of Emma working with the children, in the water, with the swim classes. They further customized this opportunity to Emma’s strengths and also addressed her needs. They met her comfort level for transportation needs, afternoon hours, 2-hour shifts, being around children and swimming.It also addressed her parents’ needs to keep Emma safe.

Now, very successfully, Emma is volunteering at the community aquatic centre and is working with the staff there to study for her Swim Assistant certification. Once certified, this customized position will secure Emma with a sustainable paid position and she will be an integral part of their swimming class team.

Emma hopes to write her exams in March. The aquatic centre also used Emma’s story and picture in their spring program guide, opening the door for many others to follow her path.