Cecilia Harwick came to Independence Now in May of 2020. She wanted to go back to work. She was nervous about going back to work but wanted to move forward to a new life. She knew she could not afford to live the life she wanted to unless she got a full-time job. She was unsure if she should divulge her disability to a potential employer for fear of how she might be treated and unfortunately, she had an interview cut short when she divulged her disability.
Cecilia reported her experience to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Despite this unfortunate event, Cecilia was determined to get a job. She wanted to return to teaching children which she is passionate about. Finally, her commitment to her job search paid off.
Cecilia is working again as a preschool teacher, her chosen career, at a wonderful center. Cecilia says, “I’ve never been happier in my work life. I feel productive and energized I’m so happy to be working again. To be an educator again gives me the fulfillment I was missing when I was unable to work.”
Cecilia recommends people with disabilities go back to work. It has been a life-changing experience for her. When asked what it was like to work with Independence Now to find work? She said, “I had wonderful support both in searching for a job and through the hiring process.”
If you or someone you know with a disability wants to work full time contact Denise Sosbe at Independence Now for support at dsosbe@innow.org or 240-898-2188.
