NCARF Weekly E-News

Employment Source would like to welcome Herman Geddie aboard. Herman joins us through the Ticket to Work Program. Herman states he has a GED, and with a desire to acquire jobs that paid more money, he realized that additional training and education were required. Herman visited Fayetteville Technical Community College to see what programs they offered and how long it would take to completea program. Herman was advised by one of the counselors to call Employment Source about the ticket to work program. Herman agreed to come by to hear how he could use this ticket he had and to his surprise he had been a ticket holder for some time and was not aware of it.

Herman has held several odds and end jobs over the past 6-7 years. Herman was diagnosed in 1990 with hereditary glaucoma resulting in a loss of vision. Prior to the diagnosis Herman was an Embroidery Supervisory but was forced to leave this position because of the visual problems. He attempted baking and numerous other odd jobs. His last place of employmentbefore coming to Employment Source was with Lafayette Memorial Park Cemetery where he helped with the lawn maintenance. Herman began drawing disability benefits in 1996 and indicated that he received the Ticket-to-Work in 2003 but as previously mentioned he was unaware of its purpose.

When informed of the possibility of working as a switchboard operator, Herman was reluctant initially to accept the position. This fear was based on his lack of experience working on a computer combined with his visual disability. After visiting the Pope Air Force Base operation and meeting with Francine Wheeler the supervisor, Herman became excited and couldn't wait to get started. Some minor modifications were required, such as adjusting of the computer monitor and Herman wearing his corrective lenses. Herman states that he really enjoys his job which he is responsible for connecting calls for the military community all over the world. There has been much support from his supervisor and co-workers. He is very thankful and comfortable with his job. Herman says like Milk/Donuts he feels as though he belongs here and is part of one big family where everyone works together. Herman says that everyone has treated him so well sincehe has come aboard and it has been such a joy to work for Employment Source. Herman says he is ready to increase his hours and responsibilities; he sees himself advancing in the company. This job is a blessing and people are always asking him how he came about getting this job. Herman does not hesitate to recommend others to come over to Employment Source to discuss their options.