- Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’ve been involved in the rehabilitation of individuals experiencing the most significant of disabilities (substance abuse, workers compensation, visual impairment) for more than 16 years. I confidently and skillfully deliver the most impactful of services to individuals often at their lowest point using a combination of professionalism and human personality; a formula I believe makes me approachable and connectable to the people I serve allowing vulnerability and movement toward goals which may have not been considered.
Describe your role at the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind.
I determine the necessity and coordinate and oversee the delivery of MCB Vocational Rehabilitation services for people with the goal of employment. This includes students as they turn 14 and transition from children to adult services (Pre-Employment Transition Services) and also community job development and networking (Employment Services) for the geographic area I serve.
Why do you feel your work is important?
I connect individuals who are often experiencing a significant trauma, in losing their vision, with services most are unaware exist. The Commonwealth having someone like me with the skills and training I possess to assist in that significant process is comforting to me and should be to other Commonwealth residents.
What do you love most about working in this field?
I feel privileged to often be the person who is igniting a fire in someone toward a goal they previously believed to be unrealistic because of their vision loss.
Working with an insecure, unsocial 14-year-old and seeing them transform into a confident college student and qualified employee is very satisfying. Knowing my services to coordinate and oversee that process from a rehabilitative standpoint are what helped facilitate change is something that is nourishing for all involved.
What experiences while working at Massachusetts Commission for the Blind have most impacted you?
Having the opportunity to train and onboard in my region with so many qualified, caring individuals. Gaining a better understanding of the services I connect someone with to ensure their provided at the right time given the circumstances was very impactful and continues to be so for those I am working with.
What’s one of your favorite memories from working with consumers?
I could write a series of books with great memories working with consumers. I’m most impacted by being a trusted resource for those I serve to connect with when needing help.
What should people know about vocational rehabilitation?
Vocational rehabilitation can often be a pathway to employment in a position someone may have not ever considered, or a journey towards a goal or passion which was previously unattainable for whatever reason. I am thankful as a vocational rehabilitation counselor to be the person who helps iron out the details to ensure the goal is realistic and feasible, but most importantly considered suitable by the consumer.
How do you spend time outside of work?
I have an amazing wife who never shies away from adventure and supports my mechanical endeavors; an incredible 8-year-old son who is kind, strong and a persuasive negotiator; a mesmerizing 5-year-old daughter who is loving, fierce and confidently stands up for what she believes is right; we spend as much time together as possible traveling, partying, and snuggling.
What three words best describe you?
HELP OTHERS IMPROVE
Complete this sentence: "I wish that everybody knew..."
…they hold the keys and map to happiness – go find it for yourself!
