Success Spotlight: Meet Austin

Building confidence and independence has been an important part of Austin's employment journey. For the past two months, he has worked as a Retail Service Team Member at Michaels, where he enjoys helping customers and keeping the store organized. "I help customers if they need help finding something," Austin shared. "I put things in the correct place, like the stickers." His willingness to learn and contribute has helped him quickly become a valued member of the team.

Throughout his time with MRCI, Austin has participated in Employment Exploration, Employment Development, Day Services, Job Placement, and Employment Support Services. Each program has helped him develop the skills and confidence needed to successfully transition into competitive employment. Reflecting on his experience, he shared, "I like working with you and everyone at MRCI."

One of the biggest changes has been the growth in his self-confidence and independence. Both at work and at home, Austin has become more comfortable carrying on conversations, expressing his needs, and communicating with others. His parents have noticed these positive changes, and his mother shared, "His time with the MRCI day program was very gratifying for Austin. He gained many life experiences and had a lot of fun."

His employer has also recognized his progress, noting that he is doing a great job working independently and continues to learn new tasks. MRCI Employment staff have witnessed that same growth firsthand. "Austin has demonstrated his ability to learn new tasks and form natural supports at his place of employment," shared his Employment Specialist.

Recently, he made the decision to transition from Day Services to focus more fully on his employment goals. One of the highlights of his workday is when his former Day Services group stops by Michaels to visit him. Those visits are a reminder of the friendships he has built and how far he has come on his employment journey.

With continued determination, growing confidence, and a strong support network, Austin is building a successful future while developing new skills and taking on new opportunities in the workplace.