#WorkingWednesday with Teddy Carlson

Name: Teddy Carlson

Company: Deluxe Corporation

Teddy’s mom Denise said that over the years she had been told numerous times that Teddy would never get a job out in the community. Teddy attended Leeda’s vocational training program since February of 2019.  There he worked learning “soft skills” to help prepare him for employment.

What things did you learn at Leeda? I learned how do new things, how act right at work, when to go to your supervisor and how they can help you.  I worked on getting along with people and what to do when people aren’t getting along.

A job opportunity came up last month that seemed a good match for Teddy's skills and Teddy was quick to jump at the chance to interview.

Tell me about the interview? I interviewed with Mr. Butler, it went good! I was calm and got to see the whole building even where I would come in at. I was able to show that I could do the job, to sort and count,  alphabetize and organize and I met a coworker who already said we are going to be friends

When do you start? I start on May 16th

What will you be doing? I will work 20 hours a week, I will be filling orders using the “employees only” ladder.

Are you going to have a job coach? yes Janessa  and Juanita

How do you feel about getting this job? I feel happy I am so excited!

Portage DD is working to create a team that will support your employment goals. If employment interests you, talk to your SSA. Your SSA can connect you to the resources that can help you assess your interests and skills, help you build skills, prepare for interviews, assist with your resume and employment paperwork, and help with on-the-job assistance.

Ready to begin your path to employment or hire your next best employee? Contact Tiffany Jones, Portage DD Community Employment Coordinator at tiffanyj@portagedd.org to get started.

Previous #WorkingWednesday Spotlights
John Atkinson
Sharon Parker
John Bingham
Donovan Laurenzi
Kevin Wilson
Michelle Reed
Jackie Bucalo
Jim Folan
Mike Havel
Jenny Sly
Donny Shardy
Georgia Pollard
Eric Curry
Nena White
Jonathan Floyd
Julia Frantz
Ashley Wilson
Chris Dejanovitz
Justin Bloomquist
Kathy Wagar
Darlene Petty
Maria Bednarik
Rick Debolt
Kathy Montieth
Heather Montogomery
Amy Gage
Logan Cox
Earl Moton
Mason Marino
Dorien Kazadi
Josh Ebie
Adam Baldwin
Luci Carey
Roberta Ebie
Streetsboro Building Independence Program
Erik Whitted