While out walking one day, Robert was struck by a drunk driver. He sustained a serious head injury which left him unable to read or write. The 46 year-old also began having difficulty remembering directions and became disoriented easily.

When Robert came to the Neil Squire Society’s Employ-Ability Program in Fredericton, New Brunswick for help looking for a part time job, he didn’t know what he would like to do; he “just wanted to work”. With no family and no memory of past events or dates, developing a resume proved to be challenging.

Neil Squire Society staff set out to speak with employers in the downtown core, the only part of the city Robert was familiar with, to find a suitable work environment. One of the businesses they visited was The Happy Baker, a European-inspired bakery and cafe. After speaking with the general manager and explaining Robert’s situation, they agreed to an interview.

Robert was accompanied by Neil Squire Society staff to the interview because of his inability to read or write, and it proved to be a success. He was hired immediately.

Robert is now working one day a week at the The Happy Baker wrapping baked goods for transport. He says that he enjoys what he is doing and it gives him a new reason to get up in the morning.

After visiting Robert at his workplace and watching him with his co-workers, it is easy to see he is thriving in his new job.

If you would like to make a donation to support others like Robert, you may do so here.