Mount Rogers Community Services 21-22 Annual Report

Building Independence

Ryan Black loves his job. When you ask him what makes his days at Food Lion’s Wytheville location so great, his answer is simple, “Everything.” Black is a custodian for Food Lion through Mount Rogers Community Services’ Supported Employment Program. Supported Employment facilitates employment opportunities for people with disabilities who need support in finding and keeping a community job. Black works two days each week with the assistance of a Mount Rogers Job Coach. “I take out the trash, I sweep, I do

whatever they want me to do,” Black says. Job Coaches shadow individuals like Black and provide initial job skills training to support the employee in becoming proficient with a community job. The Job Coach can gradually reduce the level of support as the employee gains proficiency in their job. Following the period of on-the-job training, follow-along services are provided to support the individual in maintaining successful community employment. Black has received an array of services through Mount Rogers for much of his life. He became involved with the Supported Employment program two years ago. “I love it. I like to see everybody. I have friends here,” he says. Each department Black visits to empty their trash, he’s greeted by familiar faces that he wouldn’t know without this chance for commuity employment. The paycheck Black receives is great, but the opportunity Food Lion provides for Black to engage with his community is invaluable. As one of Black’s coworkers walks by, Black stops him to ask what kind of pizza they’re serving today. Then, he asks if he can get a slice. They both smile and laugh. It’s easy to recognize the type of personal interactions that are so valuable to individuals like Black. It’s even easier to recognize the value Black’s big smile and contagious laugh contributes to his coworkers and community.

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