Sometimes all it takes is one act of kindness, one moment of
understanding, one big break. That’s how Jeff Kosbab’s story starts.
“I always wanted to work with cars, well, actually, I just wanted to
work,” explains Jeff, who found it difficult to find work after his
Schizophrenia diagnosis. “Finally, someone gave me a chance.”
That someone are the owners of Buff Kings in New Ulm.
“I have a lot of respect for him, his desire to work and his
understanding of being accountable and responsible for the work he
does,” explains co-owner Cassie Thompson. “We just wanted to give
the guy a break and I really hope he continues to make stepping stones
toward a healthy life.”
Jeff is making great strides toward living his best life. While
Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness, it is also very treatable.
While he still experiences anxiety from time to time, Jeff has learned
to manage life with the diagnosis, thanks, in part, to his job at
Buff Kings.
“It’s great, it’s a wonderful place to work. They are flexible with me
and I want to do a good job for them,” says Jeff. “I didn’t have a job for
a long time, so I am excited to get back to work. I do car detailing and
finishing work for them.”
Jeff earned the job with the help of MRCI’s Stephanie Haas, who
works in the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program.
Stephanie knew Jeff would enjoy working in the auto industry and
really listened to his needs when guiding him in his job search.
“Stephanie is always very helpful and considerate, I can’t thank her
enough,” says Jeff.
Jeff is appreciative too, to the Thompson family who have made him
feel right at home at Buff Kings.
“They gave me a chance, when few others would,” he says.
The Thompson’s say it’s been a good fit for them as well.
“Jeff seems to take a lot of pride in his work and shows that he is very
appreciative of having a job,” says Cassie. “He has a great attitude and
is very highly regarded by other employees.
“We hired him because of his initiative and his determination to
overcome significant mental health issues to be successful. We just
think he is a great example for others and we are happy he is with us.”
