The Unstoppable Essence

 

I spent the better part of this spring and summer trying to find work and was getting a lot of calls for interviews, but no call that said that I was hired. I did not know anyone in Goldsboro or Wayne County I could network with, but I did have a connection to Vocational Rehabilitation and job coaching because of disabilities I have.

I paid a visit to Literacy Connections even before Vocational Rehabilitation became involved with getting me an internship at this literacy center because I was interested in being a volunteer. I have always had an interest in books, literature, and literacy, especially having worked at a literature and literacy agency in New Jersey, where I am originally from. 

At Literacy Connections, I learned about the Separation of Duties, where duties involving money are separated to ensure that no theft occurs. I also learned how to use the Goodwill system to price donations. I wrote book reviews for the Missy Reads blog to promote the Little Free Library at the Literacy Connections office on Ash Street and helped organize the Little Free Library at the GWTA Transfer Station on N. Carolina Street here in Goldsboro.

The most important thing I have learned as a potential employee with disabilities is how to communicate. Ms. Suzie Acree, and her staff have been nothing but generous to my needs and accommodations. What really helped me open up about my dreams, goals, and needs were the Reflective Journalings that I did at the end of every workday. As I continue my professional life, this is something that I will take with me because it is a good way to unwind from the workday. It is because of these Reflective Journalings, in conjunction with working with my Employment Specialist, that I realized that I want to pursue a career in social work and advocacy for people like myself.

Being able to make a difference, no matter how small, is always something that has been important to me, and I feel that I have done that at Literacy Connections. I have found my purpose in life, and I am certain that it is because of their help. 

I once again thank Literacy Connections of Wayne County for giving me the opportunity to intern with them this fall. I am very appreciative to have had this opportunity.