Finding and maintaining a job brings satisfaction, purpose, and a social outlet for many. Here are a few stories of people who greatly enjoy their jobs and whose contributions and presence are appreciated by their employers.

Laura B.

Laura B. (City of New Brighton–Eagles Nest) Laura, from our Currie House, says she has “always had an interest in helping others, especially kids.” A year ago, she started the employment discovery process at TSE, Inc. Laura’s interest and experience at a church day care as well as her experience through her school transition program shined through. Supported by her job coach she was hired as a Building Assistant with the City of New Brighton at the Eagles Nest Indoor Playground. Laura helps provide a fun and safe play environment for kids visiting the Community Center. Her story was recently spotlighted in TSE’s Insights newsletter. Along with recently increasing her work hours, Laura received a raise!

Wade U. (Pet Crossing Animal Hospital) According to Wade, from our Ridgeview House, he has worked at PCAH for five years. Wade helps ensure the hospital is clean for pet patients and clinical staff. He enjoys his job because he is working with friends, and everyone is nice to him. Oh, another perk is getting to pet some of the animals.

Sara O.

Sara O. (Kowalski’s and Once Upon A Child) Two days per week you can find smiling and energetic Sara from Bailey Ridge at Kowalski’s in Woodbury, where she works as a Courtesy Associate. Sara also works one day per week at Once Upon A Child as an Employee Associate. Sara worked with Kaposia to explore employment and landed these jobs in February and September 2024. She enjoys chatting with customers and carrying groceries for them. At Kowalski’s, Sara is learning her role and looks forward to gaining more skills such as bagging and the feared cash register. She likes being part of a team.

Anna E. (Yellow Brick Road Day Care) When Anna moved into our Renew Apartments in July 2023, she was eager to start working again. Anchored by her past work experiences in a school cafeteria and as a Teacher’s Aide at a Watertown day care and with her mother’s support, she applied, interviewed, and was hired as a Teacher’s Aide at Yellow Brick Road Day Care. Anna works in the Infant Room helping care for up to four infants and provides float coverage in other rooms. Anna states that to be a good Teacher’s Aide she must be calm and patient. She is also certified in CPR/First Aid and participates in monthly staff meetings. “This is the best job ever,” Anna says. “It feels like I belong.”

Joe P.

Joe P. (Messerli & Kramer) For the past 17+ years, Joe, from our Stone Creek Apartments has been employed with Messerli & Kramer Law Firm as an Office Clerk. Joe has been supported by Lifeworks, which helped him land this job and provides a weekly check-in. His favorite role is delivering mail to all the offices as it provides daily interaction with his peers. Joe works in the mailroom with a desk and computer and receives regular email updates and requests to pick up or deliver important documents. He has a great relationship with his employer and co-workers and enjoys special events such as holiday parties and last summer’s Hawaiian Day.