“Having a job gives me significance for my future”
SMITHFIELD – Have you ever thought about working where you are able to be in the environment you love? Well, Justin did and is!
Justin was referred to JCI from Vocational Rehabilitation for Individual Placement and Supported Employment due to his need for assistance with mental health services. He received benefits for an extended period where he worked in a few different jobs.
While working with his JCI Employment Specialist, they visited GameStop to discuss job opportunities. Working at GameStop was the perfect match for Justin because his main hobby is playing video games.
He started a seasonal position, which allowed him to experience work in his field of primary interest, and it also allowed him to prove himself to the management. When a permanent position became available, he applied and was hired because of his interest in the business and good work ethic.
“I am a Guest Associate at GameStop. I’ve been there for three years, but I worked there for a seasonal position which ended, but then I got hired again a year later, permanently. I’m learning how to communicate with customers and operate the register. I’m also learning how to get people upgraded to pro memberships and game warranties.
My favorite part of the job is when we get new systems in, and I am in charge of getting the systems out of the back for display. I also like talking with the customers and having easy conversations about games, and oh yeah, I like my coworkers. We talk about video games, and we also joke around.
Having a job gives me significance for my future. One day, if I move on to another job, I will be able to use what I learned at GameStop and JCI. I still need to practice communication skills, and this job helps me do that”, said Justin.
“Working with Justin; he is dedicated, sociable, and has a true passion for gaming and anime,” Tyler Carter, Assistant Manager, GameStop.
“Justin successfully graduated from the JCI’s IPS program but continues receiving assistance from stand-alone peer support services. He no longer requires support with Employment. He has shown tremendous growth since entering the IPS program several years ago. He has been able to secure and maintain his dream job, get an apartment, improve his health, and continue his recovery in mental health”, Savannah Palmisano, IPS Employment Supervisor, JCI Behavioral Health Services.
-JCI News Release
Many thanks to the JCI Employment Specialist for taking the time to work with Justin to match him with an ideal position. Also thanks to GameStop for providing Justin with the opportunity to have a fulfilling job. So proud of Justin!
Congratulations Justin! JCI is a wonderful program and eork development program for many special needs people in our area who want and need to work. Thank you for all you do. ❤️
Congratulations Justin 👏👊