On the job
Carlo lives in the community of Ladner in the family home with his parents, brother and sister. Like many young adults he likes to spend time playing racing games on the computer, going to the gym, watching sports, going swimming and hiking, watching TV and hanging out with his friends. He has a special interest in bird watching and enjoys reading bird facts.
Unlike most 19 year olds, Carlo has survived many devastating health issues. Diagnosed with AML leukemia in 1995, Carlo relapsed in 1999. Full body radiation treatments were followed by a bone barrow transplant to save his life. Complications from treatments caused chronic health conditions that have defined most of his young life.
Carlo experienced the emotional and physiological challenges of coping with serious illness and the limitations he has acquired in his life. Carlo faced difficulty in managing impulsive anger and resulted in Carlo running away from home and school on many occasions. Frequently the Delta Police were contacted to locate him, de-escalate the situation and return him home safely.
With his strong family support network, Carlo began to mature, learn new coping skills and completed high school in 2009. Carlo and his family looked to a future that included working in his community. Customized Employment engaged in the discovery process to uncover Carlo’s preferences, needs, skills and passions. Employer visits, informational interviews and job shadowing opportunities allowed Carlo to explore several vocational themes.
Ideal working conditions determined that Carlo preferred work with a high degree structure and routine, opportunities for social interaction and to work independently in a clean environment. Carlo’s expressed his desire for a job that would have importance and where people were respectful and followed the rules.
Contact and job development with the Delta Police Department identified an opportunity to provide new services that would benefit the department. Shredding confidential documents and vacuuming police vehicles matched Carlo’s skills and provide ideal conditions that are well suited to Carlo’s preference for routine, order, structure and a naturally supportive environment.
Carlo is very excited and proud that he is working at the Police Department where he can make a positive contribution to the Police Officers and staff that have helped him in the past.
