- Massachusetts Commission for the Blind
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I moved to the United States from Poland in 1990 with my parents and two siblings. Shortly after, I was diagnosed with a retinal degenerative eye condition. Throughout my youth, I enjoyed playing varsity soccer and track and field. I completed my undergraduate studies at UMass Amherst with a focus in criminal justice. I then completed my graduate studies at UMass Boston in vocational rehabilitation. Fast forward to now, I am a very proud father to two lovely kids with a very caring and supportive wife.
Describe your role at the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind.
My current role at the agency is Vocational Rehabilitation and Children's Services Supervisor for Western and Central Massachusetts.
Why do you feel your work is important?
My work is important because it allows me a direct path of providing hope, empowerment, and independence through employment.
What do you love most about working in this field?
I enjoy having the ability to provide solutions and resources to those in need. Also, each case is unique which always keeps things interesting.
What experiences while working at Massachusetts Commission for the Blind or the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission have most impacted you?
Certainly, the gratitude that consumers have to the service we provide them is impactful, but also hearing this from their families and other supports puts the importance of what we do into perspective.
What’s one of your favorite memories from working with consumers?
Getting that phone call from them filled with joy, saying, “I got the job."
What should people know about vocational rehabilitation?
Vocational rehabilitation (VR) has the ability to transform one’s life dramatically by providing them with the ability to earn a living, become independent, start a family, etc.
How do you spend time outside of work?
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my two children and wife. We enjoy being outdoors, going to the playground, on road trips, mountain biking, gardening and landscaping around the house, etc.
What three words best describe you?
Driven, Advocate, Family
Complete this sentence: "I wish that everybody knew..."
Not to take life and what you have for granted.
