When employers create opportunities for people to succeed, the results often reach far beyond the job description. Amelia B.’s story is one example of how the right partnership benefits employees, coworkers, and the entire workplace.
Amelia has been connected with WACOSA since 2006, where she developed workplace skills and gained experience through community work opportunities. After building a successful career at FDC in St. Cloud, Amelia was faced with finding a new job when the facility closed. Working alongside her WACOSA Job Coach, Brenda F., she found her next opportunity at Woodcrest of Country Manor.
Today, Amelia serves residents in the dining department by delivering meals, cleaning tables, and washing dishes. While she takes pride in her work, the relationships she has built have become just as meaningful.
“I work hard, but in turn I have gotten to know about the people I serve, they are the reason I love my job here.”
Brenda reflects, “Seeing the relationships and interactions between Amelia and the residents is so exciting. Amelia knows them, she knows their families, and the care that goes both ways between Amelia and the folks she works with is one of the coolest things to see. Amelia continues to grow and has become an important part of the Woodcrest of Country Manor team.”
Christopher Kelm, Executive Director of Woodcrest of Country Manor, agrees.
“Amelia is an angel. She brings a brightness to the whole team and our residents that is hard to explain. She plays an important role here and we are very lucky to have her as part of our team.”
Doug Boser, Amelia’s direct supervisor, adds, “Amelia is a team player, she brings a lot of great qualities to the plate including being a hard worker, friendliness, her dedication and her infectious smile to name just a few. We are very fortunate to have Amelia as part of the Woodcrest team”
Amelia also offers a unique perspective on beginning a new job.
“My job is like a baseball field. First base is all the things that lead to the job, searching, resume, applications, and interviews. Second base is learning the new job and getting better at it every day. Third base is getting to know all the new co-workers and getting along with them. Home base is the feeling of belonging to my community. Finally, the bleachers…is all the WACOSA staff who have taught me the skills to succeed. I know that each one of them is cheering me on and I know that my (WACOSA) Client Manager and Job Coach are there whenever I need them.”
Inclusive hiring is about finding dependable employees who want to contribute, while ensuring employers have the support they need to build lasting success. WACOSA partners with businesses throughout Central Minnesota to match qualified job seekers with meaningful employment and provides ongoing support for both the employee and the employer. Together, these partnerships create stronger businesses, stronger workforces, and stronger communities.
