Family Engagement/Involvement

Tatiana is a transition-age youth who lives with her family in the Boston, Massachusetts metro area. She enjoys modeling, theatre, spending time with her family and friends, and being part of her community. Tatiana also volunteers her time in the community and serves as a board member for two nonprofit organizations. Tatiana is willing to learn and take on new challenges with a positive outlook. She currently works at CVS and is also a student at a local community college. Tatiana’s goal is to teach young children.

Andy Owens works in the price task force department at Powell's City of Books in Portland, Oregon. He is driven and committed to doing anything he sets his mind to. Andy has cerebral palsy and can operate a computer by using a head switch. With this technology, he is able to scan and price books. In addition to his own determination, Andy's employment success was due to the involvement of family members who advocated for him at school, led an employment-planning process, and continue to support Andy on the job.

Jared works at Microtek, a cable-assembly company in Chicopee, Mass. With his family's help, he found an employer who supports his success. Jared has natural on-the-job supports from his line managers and  coworkers. He reports that he and his coworkers get along well. He is expected to make his own decisions and be responsible for his own work.

Brian lives in Reno, NV. He has been employed since high school in jobs related to music or computers. Recently, Brian's family has supported him to develop and run a business that adds a useful service to a local music store.