Frank is pursuing one of his dreams to work at Battleground Computers. He's been visiting this store for years, getting help with his computer. Along the way, he has become well acquainted with the owner who has taught Frank a lot about computers and has inspired him to get a job in this field. Frank's godfather has also been a great mentor to him, teaching him about computers to the point that now Frank may have surpassed him in computer know-how. Taking his dream a step further with support from Clearview Employment Supports, Frank is enrolled at a local college taking computer classes and has a part-time job. At home, Frank has set up a complex computer system to manage household and entertainment systems.
Long-time aspiration: Frank has been interested in computers since he was a child, even getting his picture in the local paper when he was in middle school. He hopes to complete his studies at college and move into a job working with computers. Frank has previously took classes in horticulture, advanced horticulture, and landscape design and although he never had a job related to this training, he is interested in pursuing landscaping work. For now, its just a hobby.
Home computer system: At home, Frank has set up a comprehensive computer system that he refers to as his 'brainchild'. It is a system he built so that he can complete typical tasks like doing his homework, keep up with his budgets, and also pay his bills. Frank built the system to also house his media server. "I use it (computer system) for my Xbox because I actually have at home where my Xbox 360 is divided among three TVs. It’s actually hooked up to three TVs. I could play in the living room, the dining room, or in my room".
Attending college: Frank is a student at nearby Clark College where he is enrolled in the computer support program. He is preparing to be a computer technician which he hopes give him the credentials to work at a computer store, such as Battleground Computers. "Eventually if I can get education, I’ll be able to break away from government dependability and having to depend on the system, and I would be more independent".
Peer counseling services: When asked about the kind of support he receives, Frank credited two peer counselors for his success. First, Laryn was described as dedicated to helping him get set up at college, especially helping him to get all the paperwork submitted. He also credited Denise for giving him much needed support and the skills to find resources he needed. "Denise was a great support with me. Helped me through some of my problems with my moods, helped me with connections in the community to different sources for help, and even for getting clothes for work. She’s been great to even just talk with, that I wasn’t always able to go see my therapist because it was sometimes hard to get into. And then she would help me even at a spiritual level because we’re both Christian. And I thought it was great to have somebody who was a peer support counselor and not just share some of the mental health struggles that I've had but also my own spiritual beliefs. And that was great. Denise and Laryn together have been, I would say, the best of the best".
Employment: While taking classes, Frank had Laryn's help too to interview for a job. "It went really well. The interview and everything, my job there--actually if it wasn’t for Laryn, I don’t think I would’ve gotten into that position because she helped me look for work, get my resume together, and even though I haven't worked for years, by some miracle, WalMart said we’ll hire you. They gave me a job offer. I was in such a state of shock that I sounded like a hit and run victim when I got my job. Frank has a custodial position at the store, usually working 2 eight-hour shifts on the weekends.
Self sufficiency: Frank indicated that having a job is very important for him but also for many other people. "[Its] not the most glorious position on earth, but hey, it’s getting food on the table; it’s getting bills paid; and I’m having a better quality of life because of my job. I’m not having to try to go to people for money or trying to live so much of the government assistance. It’s actually reduced some of my need for government assistance, so I think that’s one of the key points of this whole program when it comes to trying to get more funding is I think it would be easier to fund this program to help people get jobs and fund themselves rather than trying to fund individual people. [It's good for] peoples’ mental health because now they're feeling like they're not just a drain on society but they're actually contributing. That’s how I feel now [that] I've got a job. Now I’m actually contributing a little bit to society and back to the Social Security from which I’m getting paid.