During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we are highlighting success stories of clients who found meaningful employment through JCFS Chicago. This is Jacob’s story.

In March, Jacob was in the process of completing his transition program and hoped to have a job by the time he graduated in June 2021. Jacob met with a JCFS employment specialist to assess his strengths, build his skills, and explore job opportunities. Jacob dreamt of working at a garden center, since he is passionate about gardening and is good at working with his hands.

Coincidentally, Lowe's was having their annual job hiring fair. Jacob worked with his employment specialist to prepare for the event by practicing interview skills and filling out an online application.  Jacob’s employment specialist accompanied Jacob to his interview, where he shared his experience and passion for gardening, customer service and stocking shelves. Jacob was hired as a Lawn and Garden Associate on the spot!

Jacob started training at Lowe's at the end of May and by the time he completed his transition program, he was fully hired on. With job coaching support, Jacob takes care of the plants, stocks merchandise, and provides customer service. Jacob says, “This is my dream job because it combines my passion for helping others with my love for gardening.”