Erika had been unemployed since August 2021. She worked at Blenderz Garment Recyclers for a few weeks and quit due to a lack of motivation and interest. She identified having issues focusing on the same task which consisted mainly of folding clothes, and contributed to pain in her back from constantly having to look down at her station since she is a tall individual. Erika had a neuropsychological report completed when she was 18 years old. This report indicated she struggles with emotional connections, does not do well in an environment that involves a lot of individuals and struggles with spatial processing, focus, and sensory triggers. Erika felt the best fit would be a workplace that does have components of repetitiveness without being overwhelming, where she can take breaks and does not have to do a lot of customer service.

Career Exploration and Environment Demands

The employment coach supported Erika with brainstorming jobs she would like to do and would be a good fit. The employment coach edited her resume and reviewed job applications, Erika diligently submitted her weekly job search reports to her employment coach. The employment coach had Erika work on an “Environmental Demands Rating” worksheet which supported Erika and the employment coach with a better understanding of what kind of environment would fit her best. Appointments were made over Google meetings with the employment coach on a regular basis.

Job Search Success!

Erika was successfully hired by PetSmart in Edmonton for a position as a sales associate with part-time hours.  She immediately started retention support services with her employment coach and job developer. EC would contact the client on a monthly basis. Erika remains employed at PetSmart!

Edmonton-Area EmployAbilities Programs

EmployAbilities provides employment training programs and services for Edmonton and area residents with disabilities. Currently, we have five Edmonton-based programs available – take a look and see which one is right for you! https://employabilities.ab.ca/edmonton-and-greater-area-programs/