Since joining Anthesis on October 3, 2016, Willie’s goal was to find a job he was passionate about, and throughout his time at Anthesis, he has had a positive impact on many others who have had the opportunity to work with him.
Willie started as a participant in the Work Activity Program (WAP), where he was responsible for packaging goods and wrapping pallets. During his time in WAP, Willie worked incredibly hard and dedicated himself to completing his daily tasks. Willie looks back on his experience in WAP and feels gratitude for the opportunity and experience, which set him up for success when he joined the Supported Employment Program (SEP).
After a participant has been hired into a job, SEP offers support and coaching to help participants success in their roles. Willie was hired as a member of the FSC Lighting enclave on January 29, 2018, a job that aligned with the skills he learned in the Work Activity Program. As a SEP participant, Willie works with a job coach everyday to help him in his job.
As he got started with FSC Lighting, Willie learned and grew immensely. His main task is to assemble LED lights, and he picked that up quickly. His job coach, Rita Ramirez, recalls that Willie was able to adapt to his new position and responsibilities with ease. Rita remembers that Willie was shy and timid at first, especially with a new group of people. With patience and support, Willie opened up and felt more comfortable. Now, Willie takes the initiative to advocate for himself and doesn’t hesitate to ask for help when he needs it.
Ultimately, Willie really enjoys his job and feels fulfilled when he accomplishes his tasks and responsibilities successfully. Willie exudes positivity and dedication, so much so that his coworkers take notice. Willie’s coworker at FSC Lighting was going through a tough time because she was battling breast cancer. During her treatment, she said she found her strength by looking to Willie’s determination and joy for life as an example. She admires that Willie shows up every day with a positive attitude and the initiative to work hard. In her own words, she said that she found strength because “giving up or giving in is not an option for Willie.”
Keep up the phenomenal work, Willie! You are a great role model and everyday hero – thank you!