The following is shared from WSO Vocational Rehabilitation partner, Misa Olsen:

Irving’s Success Story: What can be achieved with hard work, perseverance, and the help of WorkSource partners

Irving’s success story did not happen overnight. After many years of battling Alcoholism, a disability that was causing a barrier to employment and couch-surfing with no permanent place to call his own, Irving made the decision to start taking back his life. His first step toward success was seeking services at his local WorkSource Center.

There, he got connected with VR Counselor, Darla Kennedy. She got him directed toward Central Oregon Community College’s (COCC) GED class that was held onsite. While taking the GED courses, he also chose to participate in a COCC pilot program that provided academic, career, and financial supports that included tuition and course fees for up to 8 credits per term to go towards a Career and Technical (CET) Education.

Darla then connected him with the WorkSource STEP Career Coach. With her Irving was able to get a laptop, gas assistance, cell phone, and funds toward his GED class.

After Irving completed his GED, he continued to receive support from VR and STEP, including clothing for school and interviews and more.

Once he started classes toward a Peer Support Certification, he was connected with ICAP Coach, Sue Pierce, as well as the STEP services staff at COCC. He was diligent with his studies and made the Dean’s List.

Misa Olsen, VR Workforce & Business Coordinator, connected Irving to an internship through COCC, where he worked on a health promotion campaign on reducing binge drinking among 18-34 year olds.

Once Irving completed his Peer Support Certification in Addictions/Mental Health, he was able to secure a job as a Recovery Specialist and then a Residential Counselor in Behavioral Health.

Irving will be receiving his Community Health Certificate this summer and plans to get his AAOT and transfer to a four-year college to get his Bachelor’s. He has his own apartment and has been with his employer for almost a year. Irving is also working on receiving a certification through his work as a Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA). He is thankful for all of the people who assisted him on his journey. With his chosen profession, Irving feels good at being able to help others who are experiencing similar issues to those he went through.