Ana T.: Making a Difference in Her Community
Ana T. serves as a Spanish-English translator, educational facilitator and parent/teacher liaison for pre-school and elementary schools. A Georgia Workforce Action Grant – funded by ODEP to move individuals with significant disabilities from segregated living environments into employment and the community – provided Ana with a job coach who helped discover and maximize her strengths and skills. Previously, Ana, who has cerebral palsy, had been relegated to such employment as wiping down cafeteria tables and bagging groceries. She and her coach conducted an inventory of Ana’s strengths and interests, including bilingualism, computer skills and her love for children. Consequently, she has become an advocate and role model for countless parents and students.
