Matthew was born with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. He has recently noticed a decline in his memory and finds himself forgetting information more easily than before. He also struggled in school in the past, which he now thinks could be related to his disability. To manage this, Matthew finds that having additional time to learn material and practicing repetition is helpful.

With a passion for food, Matthew was interested in exploring both part-time employment and post-secondary education opportunities. He had previously joined our Empower3D program, where he successfully received three certifications that greatly enhanced his employability.

In Empower3D, Matthew also learned how to look for work outside of just the standard job posting sites, navigating the hidden job market, as well as how to successfully network with potential employers.

Matthew secured a placement as a barista at a local coffee shop until the company had to lay him off due to a seasonal slowdown.

Matthew contacted us to see if more assistance was available to him and to ask for advice on what steps he should take after being laid off. He enrolled in our Creative Employment Options program.

His Job Developer helped Matthew update his resume and cover letter, and through this work, he found he had re-gained his confidence.  Matthew was soon pounding the pavement to hand resumes out in-person. Before long, he was getting calls for interviews.

Weighing out his options after a round of successful interviews, Matthew decided to accept the offer for a Food Services Associate/Cook role at a food services provider. Matthew is very excited about his new job, as the position has room to learn and grow within the food service industry. He can thrive in this new work and work towards his goal of a more senior position in a kitchen environment.