October 27, 2023
Supported Employment Success: Read Joseph’s Story About Becoming a Peer Support Specialist
Cascadia’s Supported Employment Team – which helps clients identify career opportunities, apply for jobs, and maintain employment – continues their excellent success connecting people with job opportunities that fit their skills and long-term goals.
“Supported employment has been a vital service at Cascadia for years. Gaining employment provides a sense of worth and accomplishment, and yields benefits that adds to a person’s recovery journey. It’s a powerful part of what we do here at Cascadia,” said Derald Walker, Cascadia’s President and CEO and a consistent advocate for the value of supported employment services.
Joseph is one of many clients to have found success with Cascadia’s Supported Employment program. Learn more about his journey below:
When did you start Cascadia’s Supported Employment Program? What brought you there?
Joseph: I started in September 2022. I was living at Bybee Lakes Shelter. I had been unhappy being on disability and being homeless. It added to my stress. I was really determined to start working again and get out of homelessness.
What role has your employment specialist played in your experience?
Victoria helped me explore different options for training, education, and working with Vocational Rehabilitation. Vocational Rehabilitation paid for Peer Wellness Training. Victoria helped me with resume building, interview skills, job searching, talking about all the challenges of working and being a support person along the way with this new experience.
What is your job?
I am a Peer Support Specialist. I work as part of the Clackamas County Mobile Response Team.
What are some things you like about your job?
I like being able to help people who are struggling in ways I struggled. I like being part of the field of mental health and recovery. It helps me to be immersed in this. I like working in a positive environment with good people, being busy, and having purpose. It gives me hope for the future.
What has changed for you since starting your job?
I have moved into independent housing. I am paying off debts and I bought a new car. My self-esteem has improved. I have a future.
What are your plans for the future?
Continue to gain experience and advance my career at MHAAO. I would like to pursue higher education and get my QMHA (Qualified Mental Health Associate) certification.