Employees are a company’s greatest asset, and the right person for the right job makes all the difference.

Occasionally, when seeking employment for our MVA clients, we encounter employers who offer a position out of charity, rather than from a real business need.  The reality is that these opportunities, offered out of kindness instead of need, are usually not sustainable, and often lead to burn-out, job loss and disappointment.

That is why the core focus in our MVA Employment Services is finding positions that match an individual’s strengths, gifts, and capabilities to actual business needs.  In other words, we focus on finding real solutions for real needs. 

One would think, during this tight labor market with so many employers in desperate need for new hires, that it would be easier to find jobs for the people we support. Unfortunately, that is not the case. In our society, there is still a stigma that surrounds the word “disability”.  People often see a person’s limitations rather than their strengths. However, at MV Advancements, we are “people people”. We look for what someone has to offer to an employer.  With this approach, we continue to be successful in meeting business needs with the right people to fill the job, resulting in a win-win situation.

Recently Jerrid, was hired at Capital Manor in West Salem. Working with Courtney, his MVA Employment Consultant, Jerrid searched for some specific opportunities in the transportation field.  He was interested in either a driving or delivery job, but was also open to a security guard position.

During their job search, Courtney and Jerrid came across a trolley driver position at Capital Manor in West Salem. This position sparked their curiosity, and Jerrid decided to apply. Soon after, an interview was scheduled with the Director of Community Life & Wellness.  Jerrid stated, “the whole interview was awesome”.   “You could tell that the director really wanted this position to be a great fit for Capital Manor and for Jerrid,” said Courtney.

Shortly after the interview, Jerrid was offered the trolley driver position. He is enjoying driving residents from their villas to the main building for meals. When asked what he likes about his job, Jerrid replied, “I get to interact with the residents that I pick up and they tell me their stories and then I get to tell them a little bit about myself. I like that I get to drive a trolley and I get to pick up and interact with the different residents”.

A job makes a meaningful difference in a person’s life.  Work builds self-confidence and skills.  It allows people to develop relationships with others, and expands their world in many positive ways, just as it has for Jerrid and the people he’s met on the job.

Congratulations to Jerrid on his new position!  He enjoys his job, and Capital Manor needs and values his work.   At MVA, we will continue to do our part to support his long-term success on the job.