Crystal Perez has found a worksite where she can contribute, learn, and take on tasks that match her abilities through Workforce Solutions’ Summer Earn and Learn program.
Crystal, who is blind, is working at the Cleveland Senior Citizens Organization this summer. For Executive Director Lynette Jackson, Crystal quickly stood out for her energy and willingness to learn.
“She has more energy and drive,” Jackson said. “She’s a fast learner.”
Finding the Right Tasks
Crystal said her experience at Cleveland Senior Citizens has been better than some of her previous worksites. While some tasks are visual and can leave her with downtime, she has also found work she can complete using tactile skills.
“Despite my blindness, I’m still able to work with some tactile tasks,” Crystal said.
That has allowed her to take on responsibilities at the worksite while learning how to navigate different types of tasks.
A First Experience With SEAL
For Jackson, this is the first year the Cleveland Senior Citizens Organization has participated in Summer Earn and Learn. She said the program also encouraged the organization to think about different ways students can contribute to its work.
Having Crystal at the worksite has given Jackson the chance to see her strengths firsthand, particularly her energy and ability to pick up new tasks.
“I think having a program like this can also enhance her ability to be able to work in the work world,” Jackson said.
Jackson’s Message to Employers
Jackson also encouraged other employers to consider participating in Summer Earn and Learn.
For Cleveland Senior Citizens Organization, bringing a student into the workplace provided an opportunity to support Crystal’s professional development while also giving the organization additional help.
“They definitely should give Workforce Solutions Summer Earn and Learn program an opportunity,” Jackson said, noting that the program can help employers with their budgets while giving students the chance to learn a trade.
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