READ ABOUT ERIKA’S JOURNEY AND SUCCESS STORY.
Erika came to OPARC in December 2019 for assistance in finding a job and entered into our Job Development program. Because Erika lacked job experience, she was not very successful in landing interviews or getting past an initial one.
At OPARC, we work with each participant to determine a person-centered plan which defines their individual goals and desires. Erika’s goal is to get the work experience she needs to obtain competitive employment. Upon working with her, OPARC’s Integration Facilitator learned that a site preference for Erika was working at an ice cream shop. This was great since a partnership had already been developed with Daniel, the owner of Bruster’s Real Ice Cream in Rancho Cucamonga. Arrangements were made by our Business Services Manager and Erika’s Department of Rehabilitation counselor for her to participate in the Adult Work Experience (AWE) program through OPARC. This plan provides Erika with the opportunity to work at a business, earn a competitive wage, and add new skills to her resume.
Through AWE, Erika started paid work at Bruster’s Ice Cream. She faced some challenges when it came to divulging personal and health information to the people she worked with, and she was concerned that customers wouldn’t like her. Daniel encouraged Erika to ask for what she needed, for example, if she felt tired or didn’t understand a task. Erika learned to communicate her needs clearly and that it’s OK to ask for a break if she felt tired. Daniel wanted Erika to stay focused on her abilities rather than her challenges.
Erika’s Adult Work Training was structured around 100 hours of paid work and her family was able to transport her to and from Bruster’s. She had an OPARC job coach on site for support in learning and performing assigned tasks. Her responsibilities included prepping toppings, scooping ice cream, greeting customers, and how to take responsibility for her own timecard by signing in and out.
The owners and staff at Bruster’s enjoyed working with Erika so much that they look forward to bringing her back part time (if she’s available) in the Spring when the weather is warmer, and business picks up. “Erika learned so much and has been a great fit into our work culture and team”. On Erika’s last day of work, they had a party to thank her, let her know how much they enjoyed working with her, and they look forward to hopefully working with her again.
In her free time, Erika enjoys hanging out with her older sister, doing make-up, dancing to Salsa, listening to Spanish music and eating out! One of her favorite things to do is go out for ice cream, at Bruster’s, of course.
The future is bright for Erika! The ongoing training and paid work experience adds to her skills and enhances her resume in seeking competitive employment in an industry she enjoys.
Behind the Scenes
Erika with Bruster’s owner, Daniel
Prepping ice cream for the day
The team gifted Erika a “SquishMallow”
Gifts from Bruster’s – Great Job Erika!
The Bruster’s Team in Rancho Cucamonga
Daniel gifting Erika the official Bruster’s pins as keepsakes
You Can Make a Difference
First established in 1950, OPARC offers trusted programs to individuals with I/DD.
OPARC has been championing and advocating for diversity, equality, and inclusion for Adults with I/DD. We’re committed to supporting individuals in our various programs and empowering them to reach their full potential. Let’s continue to work together towards a brighter, more equitable future for all.
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