Meet Kenneth (California)!

KENNETH'S STORY:

Kenneth is an EVS Technician at the hospital.  He is responsible for cleaning and sanitizing assigned areas of the hospital and collecting and disposing of trash.

Kenneth’s position is considered essential since COVID-19 spiked back in March.  Kenneth was working part-time and living with his mother, who is high-risk for the virus.  When the stay-at-home order was released, Kenneth stepped up to the plate and was promoted to full-time.

Kenneth loves his job but also loves his mother so he set up his own strict procedures to follow for when he returns home to keep her safe.

Kenneth has thrived in this position, even more so during this pandemic because having this job shows him that he truly matters.  His job has brought him new life, and a greater sense of significance.  His mom has shared, “His smile hasn’t left his face since his first day on the job.”

While those of us who support these employees with disabilities already knew they were essential now it is more apparent to everyone else and hopefully will reflect down the road in opportunities, increase hours and wages, etc.