JCFS Chicago is proud to join the nonprofit community and celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Each week, we will be highlighting a client success story of someone who found meaningful employment through JVS Career & Employment. This is Luba’s story.

Luba came to JVS Career & Employment seeking a part time position that she would be passionate about. She was interested in exploring different career opportunities that would highlight her skills and abilities. The Supported Employment program helped her reach these goals by assisting with her job search and finding her an appropriate position. Her job coach worked with Luba every step of the way, giving her tools through coaching that helped her achieve her goals and retain her position. With the help of JVS, Luba is happy in her role and able to manage all of her job-related tasks independently.

“JVS changed my life because I am truly happy with my job and I enjoy going every day,” Luba said. “It helped me overcome my issues of speaking to other people. I am now able to read out loud to people, present with confidence and am more outgoing and social.  That JVS can help people with disabilities find employment; it is a great organization. It symbolizes hope and confidence that people can set their mind to their goals regardless of your barriers. If you are struggling, talk over the issues with your coach. Don’t give up because you will find something that you are good at and enjoy. It will help you gain skills and be a part of the community.  I am thankful that JVS gave me confidence to live everyday life. I was able to successfully gain competitive employment with the help of my employment specialist. I truly enjoyed my experience with the JVS Supported Employment Program.”