Elliott was a participant in the 2015-2016 Project SEARCH cohort. Elliott processed his Project SEARCH application, and along with his evaluation by the NC Dept. of Vocational Rehab (NCDHHS) it led our team to realize Project SEARCH would be a great fit. Quickly, Elliott began thriving and succeeding. Would you please read the rest of his story and learn about this great program?
Meet Elliott
What was your biggest “takeaway” from the Project SEARCH program?
My biggest takeaway from the program was proving that I could step up to the plate and complete this program. It also showed me I could be a leader and role model.
Reflect on your relationship with your WestBridge Job Coach. How did they serve and help you?
My job coach Laura, Devonne, and others, helped show me the way through the job and inspired me to push hard in life and be proud of it.
Sounds like you did different jobs during your internship. What did you do? What did you learn about yourself?
I started out doing maintenance which was cleaning the entire hospital and moving around a lot. Everything I have done has required me to stay active and motivated, which I liked learning about myself.
Did you find a job after graduating? Where do you work now?
I did find a job after graduating and have worked at Walmart since August 22nd, 2017, to this day.
If your friend was interested in the Project SEARCH program, what would you tell them?
If I had a friend interested in the Project SEARCH program, I would greatly help and highly encourage them to do it. I would also include that everyone needs help in life to get through.
How could WestBridge and Project SEARCH improve? Be honest.
Both can improve by including more defensive or protective skills to people with disabilities and making them aware of the signs of being taken advantage of.
What does the “perfect” day look like to you?
My perfect day looks like waking up early with music and having the whole day planned out regardless of what I do.
