Changing Lives in the Northwoods: Lisa got the job!

ODC is always excited to share the news when someone gets a job.  Here’s a great story from our team in the “Northwoods” in Minocqua…

Lisa started working with ODC’s Employment Coordinator, Jenny, towards the end of September.  Lisa and Jenny worked together to conduct a job search.  They talked about ideas and jobs that might be a great fit for Lisa’s skills and interests.

Lisa played an active role in her job search process.  She researched job openings in the areas and looked at want ads in the paper to find possibilities.   

She found an opening that sparked her interest, and contacted Jenny to let her know about the opening.   They worked together on the job application, and Lisa utilized her network, as she knows the owners of the restaurant Polecat and Lace and reached out to them.

Lisa interviewed for the job and received a job offer with a start date of November 3, 2020!  She will be performing dishwashing and housekeeping duties eight hours per week, with a goal of eventually adding more hours.

Lisa is ecstatic about the job—as her mother Carol stated, “She was so excited when she got home, she couldn’t stand still.” She went on to say, “Jenny from ODC was really 'on the ball' and did an outstanding job.  She was determined, went after the opening and didn’t drag her feet.  I would recommend Jenny and ODC to others.”

Lisa stated, “I can’t believe it--it’s really exciting!  I’m going to give it my all!”

Lisa, with the help of her mom, also owns and operates Lisa’s Affordable Shredding.  Lisa plans to continue to help her mom with the business, because in Lisa’s words, “her mom needs something to do.”

Congratulations Lisa, ODC is proud of you!

ODC's mission is to empower people with disabilities to achieve their work and life goals. ODC works together with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), Inclusa, Lakeland Care, and other funding sources to provide individuals with skills training and employment services, and assistance in becoming more active in their communities.

ODC began providing services in Northern Wisconsin in 2019, when we became a partner in the Project SEARCH site at Howard Young Medical Center. Through job development and supported employment, ODC supports people with disabilities in finding and keeping a job that is right for them.

Can you help support ODC in fulfilling their mission? Donate here online!