Tammy has always been a hard worker, but finding a job that fit her needs and strengths wasn’t always easy. Balancing work with anxiety and depression sometimes made it challenging to keep a consistent schedule. When she connected with Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota’s (GESMN) disability services and Individualized Placement and Support (IPS) program, she found the guidance and support she needed to not just find a job, but a career.
Since 2013, Tammy has worked with GESMN to develop job skills, build confidence and maintain employment. Last year, she started working at Kwik Trip and absolutely loves it, although balancing work with personal challenges was difficult at first.
Finding the Right Fit
Before joining Kwik Trip, Tammy had jobs without much interaction with customers, and she struggled with maintaining consistent work hours. GESMN worked with her to find a role that not only suited her skills but also gave her the chance to grow, she said.
At Kwik Trip, Tammy found a workplace that was both supportive and welcoming. Her role includes preparing food, assisting with samples and helping customers with their orders. One of her favorite parts of the job is getting to know the regulars. Tammy says one customer even greets her by saying, “There’s my gal!”
“I like talking with the guests at work, which I didn’t get to do in past jobs,” Tammy shared. “It’s helped me push myself to get out more.”
Overcoming Challenges with Support
Despite finding a job she loves, Tammy still faced challenges. Anxiety and depression make some workdays more difficult than others, and last year absences began to affect her job. That’s when she turned to her career navigator Tayler for support.
“Some days are harder than others,” Tammy said. “But Tayler encourages me a lot. She helps communicate with my job when I need it, and my manager Patty has been a big help too.”
To set Tammy up for success, she, Tayler and her manager worked together to adjust her schedule. They reduced her hours from 20 per week to 15 and removed a weekend shift, ensuring she could maintain a steady routine without feeling overwhelmed. With this adjustment, Tammy set a new goal: one month without missing a shift.
Small Goals, Big Achievements
At first, hitting that goal wasn’t easy. Three weeks in, Tammy had to miss a shift due to an illness. She was disappointed but determined to try again and with continued encouragement from Tayler and her team at work, she kept pushing forward.
Now, Tammy has achieved something she once thought impossible—five months of perfect attendance.
“She’s the one doing the hard work,” Tayler said. “Her commitment, honesty and perseverance have been incredible to watch.”
A Path to a Bright Future
Through the IPS program, Tammy found not just a job, but a career that gives her confidence and stability. She’s learned new skills, built strong relationships with her coworkers and customers and gained the tools to overcome obstacles along the way.
“GESMN sticks with their clients no matter what,” Tammy said. “They help you find a job, keep a job and push you to be your best.”
Learn more about the nearly 20 custom services and programs GESMN offers to create career opportunities.
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