- Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
I have always enjoyed working with and helping people. Prior to becoming a certified rehabilitation counselor, I worked as a workers’ compensation adjuster for many years. As a workers’ compensation adjuster, I used the services of rehabilitation counselors for job development and job market analysis to assist workers who became disabled due to a work injury. I also worked for the Department of Unemployment Assistance, and the Department of Children and Families as a case worker, before joining the Massachusetts Commission for the Blid (MCB) as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor.
My role at MCB is comparable to a case manager and my responsibilities include:
- Determine consumers’ service needs and create a plan to address their needs.
- Connect consumers with services and/or resources such as training, technology, and educational funding when applicable.
- Provide counseling and guidance.
- Conduct in-person home visits to assess for additional needs.
- Attend Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings.
- Assist with resume development.
- Provide job leads.
I am here to support the consumers in every way possible so they can achieve their vocational goals. Like my coworkers, I believe in the important work we do at MCB. As a team, we provide vital services to individuals who are often marginalized due to their disability. MCB is here to advocate and create opportunities, revitalize hope, and support consumers on their journey to become independent and productive contributors in their communities. I am proud to be a part of the team doing the work.
Before joining MCB, I had very little knowledge of how people live with blindness. During my training to become a rehabilitation counselor, I learned about blindness from my textbooks. The textbooks do not capture the lived experience of working with individuals who are blind. I have met some amazing and wonderful people who are resilient and not limited by their blindness or afraid to be challenged. I am encouraged by their confidence.
I want to knock on every employer’s door and tell them they have no idea what they are missing out on by being reluctant to hire a person who is blind.
Working with my consumers has been rewarding, particularly when I see them achieve their vocational goals. These are joyous and fun memories for me.
If I had to share only one thing that people should know about vocational rehabilitation, it is that the journey of working with some consumers may require much persistence, but those moments bring the biggest joy and reward.
After long day of work, I love being outdoors gardening or going for a walk.
If I should describe myself in only three words, they would be passionate, committed, and trustworthy.
In final thought, I wish that everybody knew a person who is blind desires to live and work independently and be respected as a capable individual.
