Seeds of Success: Bob's Journey from Yard Work to Farmhand

Perspectives RI Employment Services for people with Disabilities

The challenging times during the Covid-19 pandemic were filled with inspiring stories of resilience and adaptability, especially from the individuals we support at Perspectives Corporation's Employment Services program. Today, we share one such story - Bob's journey to employment, which beautifully exemplifies the power of identifying and nurturing unique skills and interests.

Our very own Jackie McKenna Tyghter, a Career Developer at Perspectives, recalls her experience during the pandemic when she was asked to help out in an Adult Residential program. It was during this time that she met Bob and noticed his unique interest.

"During my 14 months working there, I noticed Bob enjoyed weeding around the yard," Jackie says. "I embraced those work skills with him where he then joined PCSEPP and participated in some discovery which led to the job he holds today!"

A Joyful Return to Work

Today, Bob is joyfully employed as a farm hand at Hillandale Farm, a part of the Ayers Foundation, in Westerly. After a break during the winter months, Bob returned to his job, warmly welcomed back by the farm owners, Uli and Max Hence. Bob was excited to get started and with the support of his team, he's back in action.

In an effort to ensure that Bob is fully supported as he heads to work each week, Jackie recently cross trained a few of his day staff supports on his job at the farm. And Bob has shown that his skills remain sharp even after the winter off, as he efficiently manages tasks such as cutting the grass, some greenhouse tasks, and even splitting and stacking wood!

We can't wait to see what other skills he learns this year!

Jackie shares with pride, "When Bob first started in July 2022, Uli taught him the safety skills needed to use the wood splitter and it's become a task he really enjoys and looks forward to! Hillandale Farm has been a wonderful employment opportunity for Bob and we can't wait to see what other skills he learns this year!"

Bob's journey to meaningful employment is just the beginning. We're excited to witness the new skills he'll learn and the achievements he'll make in the year ahead. Bob's story is a testament to the power of recognizing and nurturing individual abilities. At Perspectives, we believe in the potential of every individual we serve, and it's stories like Bob's that make our belief a reality.

Partner With Us: Make a Difference in Your Community

We invite local businesses to join us in fostering diversity and inclusion in the workforce by supporting the employment of individuals with disabilities. By partnering with Perspectives, you can contribute to the enrichment of your team while making a significant impact in our community.

Interested? We'd love to hear from you. Together, let's write the next success story.

Contact us today for more information.

Seeds of Success: Bob's Journey from Yard Work to Farmhand

A Joyful Return to Work

Partner With Us: Make a Difference in Your Community

Read More From Perspectives ...