Olivia is a self-advocate whose goal is to continue to learn both personally and professionally and to user her skills and experiences as an advocate for people with disabilities. Olivia knows the importance of family involvement, job skills training, goal setting, peer mentoring and employment to achieving a fulfilling and meaningful life. She has learned through simple life skills to live independently (with some supports), pay her bills, do menu planning and purchase her own groceries and budget her money so she can do things socially.

In January, 2012 Olivia started the Project SEARCH program at Children’s Hospital, a job skills training program that included hands-on internships and mentoring within various departments of the hospital. In June, 2012 she was hired in a casual position at Children’s Hospital and in January, 2013 she accepted a full-time position. Olivia knows she is part of a team of employees and was hired not because of disabilities but because she is a hard worker and willing to take on additional responsibilities. Olivia needs to be moving and her job responsibilities fit that need which makes for a success story.

Many thought she would not be able to accomplish this and at one time it was suggested that Olivia will do more than work in a sheltered work place. Part of Olivia’s anger and behaviors were a result of hearing this was her life and her unwillingness to accept this. Olivia believes she can improve her work status and is currently enrolled in the Central Service Technician program at WCTC.