Search Ends with a Job
When most people get ready to graduate from high school,
they start planning for the future. Lawrence Jones is no exception. He spent his
final year in school participating in a job training program called Project
Search held at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola. Project Search trains students
with disabilities in a variety of nontraditional jobs including preparing an
operating room. In March, Jones was the first of his class to land a permanent
position with benefits at the hospital as a respiratory care assistant.
October is Disability Employment Awareness Month. Florida's Agency for Persons
with Disabilities (APD) is highlighting the contributions of people with
disabilities to the workforce.
Jones has a highly responsible position delivering oxygen tanks throughout the
hospital. He also delivers and stocks supplies on all four floors of the
hospital, then recycles the empty boxes. Jones says, "At the beginning I was
kind of confused, but was sure I was going to get it." And according to his
boss, he definitely gets it.
"He knows everyone in the hospital. When he does his rounds, he is constantly
saying 'Hello' to employees and patients," says Assistant Manager Jackie Kelley
of the hospital's Respiratory Department. "It is a pleasure to work with
Lawrence. He is so eager to help and will do anything you ask. He is so
excited about his job and about life."
The hospital employees enjoy Jones' positive attitude. Jones says he knows the
key to getting along with co-workers. "I respect them. It's all about
respecting everyone." Another important tip Jones shares on success in the
workplace is enjoying your job. "I have fun," says Jones.
APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn, and work in their communities. For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit www.apdcares.org or call toll-free 1- 866-APD-CARES (1-866-273-2273).
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