Double the Experience, Double the Growth

Story

“My work experiences have helped me to develop a good work ethic, better understand what it means to have a job, to gain friendships, and learn how to listen to my supervisor.” – Bryant, VR Customer

“Because of work experiences I had before FatCats, I was able to learn to communicate which helped me to make a good impression and helped me to get hired after my work experience.” – Jerek, VR Customer

Bryant and Jerek were referred to IDVR by their teacher at Madison Senior High School in March of 2022 to gain support from IDVR to transition from high school to the world of work.

Since beginning to work with IDVR, Bryant has been able to benefit from a variety of services including work readiness training, short-term work experiences, and attending reality town to understand the value of money and basics of budgeting all of which have supported him to where he is today, now working independently at Albertsons.

Jerek has also received several services to support him in his transition since beginning to work with VR including completing work readiness training, short-term work based learning experiences, attending reality town, completing a career and technical education summer camp, and attending a college camp to help gain valuable skills that will help him succeed in his goals after he completes high school.

“Bryant was able to build strong relationships during his work experience that made him someone we wanted to add to our team.” – Patty, Supervisor at Albertsons

“Jerek gets along well with everyone and is just a positive influence on the work environment overall.” – Jake, General Manager at FatCats

When Bryant and Jerek were first referred to VR to start talking about the transition from school to work, their mother Tisha, expressed that she wasn’t sure what work would look like for her sons, and that the individualization of their services has meant a lot to their individual successes and growth.

Bryant and Jerek’s VR Counselor, Talon Mansfield, reports that he has been able to see them both come a long way. Bryant does great at working to improve in all aspects and Jerek does a great job at interacting with customers. They both have great attitudes and an excitement to work.

“The biggest growth that was seen was that as Bryant and Jerek were able to participate in work experiences through VR and eventually maintain jobs, they became more independent in their classes, and they have also gained a better understanding of their abilities and support needs. They have also learned great life lessons about how life isn’t cheap, they need to work for it, and to understand the value of money. These changes didn’t all come at once, but as they built skills and had different experiences with VR it was a snowball effect.” – Payton Berry, Teacher at Madison School District