Over the course of more than 50 years of operation, there may be no better way to describe the impact The PLUS Company has had on the community than to share some of their clients’ stories in their own words. It is testimonials like these that inspire the PLUS Company team to continue in their mission to empower adults with disabilities.
Brooke and Laura Find Connections Together
Brooke O’Brien has been receiving services from The PLUS Company for over two years, and is excited about everything she has learned during that time. “I love my staff,” she says, “They help me learn how to do things by myself. When I don’t know how to do something, staff help me. My staff help me calm down and share.” The PLUS Company Residential Department helped Brooke to find her roommate, Laura, and the two are clearly meant to be. “I love Laura. She helps me eat healthy, teaches me to cook, and makes sure I do my chores.” When the pandemic hit, the two relied on each other for more than just companionship. The decided to get in better shape with long walks, and even some running, worked on cooking healthy meals, and began scrap booking all of their adventures. Brooke stayed connected to her PLUS Company friends via virtual classes, including cooking and art class, got outside with The PLUS Company walking club, and now works with PLUS staff at the Hudson Community Thrift Shop. According to Laura, “Brooke loves having the ability to do things for herself. For adults with disabilities, it can be really isolating. Having the chance to be around friends her age and socialize is a great opportunity for her.” Brooke says she has big plans for the next year. “I love The PLUS Company! I want to learn new things this year. I want to get a job, be healthy, and have fun with my friends and my roommate.”
Chelsea Takes on The World
Chelsea Schultz has had a year she will never forget. Chelsea is an independent woman who lives with her cat and is always busy between her job at Hannaford, her schedule of activities, PLUS Pride Special Olympics, and classes with The PLUS Company. The past year has been particularly eventful, as Chelsea trained for and attended the Special Olympics World Games in Germany as the first-ever female powerlifter representing New Hampshire. PLUS Company staff helped her prepare to travel by helping her take a lot of small steps, from getting a passport, to packing, to navigating travel with her teammates. While in Germany, Chelsea won three silver medals and returned home to cheers from her co-workers, friends, and PLUS clients and staff.
Chelsea has also been going through the process of having her apartment redone. This can be stressful for anyone but with support from staff she has been able to make lists, organize and process through the frustrations. She also continued to compete in PLUS Pride Special Olympics Softball and assisted with the Track and Field team.
When asked about her time with The PLUS Company, Chelsea raves about the staff, especially Direct Support Professional, Tom, who she has been working with for four years. "Tom is a caring, amazing, and outgoing DSP. He cares about his clients and always help with my goals. We also play sports and go on hikes. He is very comfortable to be around and easy to talk to and a very hard worker.”
Teamwork, Communication, and Project SEARCH Lead to Justin’s Dream Job
Justin Richards loves keeping things organized and paying attention to the details, which has made him a true asset to the Materials Management department at St. Joseph Hospital. Described as quiet and polite with a great work ethic, Justin was a successful participant in the Project SEARCH program at the hospital, graduating in June 2021. During the program, Justin worked with his PLUS Company Career Trainers to complete three 10-week internships in Infection Prevention, Sterile Processing, and Materials Management. He was hired to work in Materials Management upon graduation, and currently works 30 hours per week. Justin’s duties include stocking, monitoring inventory, and delivering items throughout the hospital. “I enjoy working in the warehouse because of my co-workers,” says Justin. “I like working as a team. I am always learning new things and am never bored. I like working at the hospital because we help others get well. Project SEARCH taught me that communication is the key to teamwork. I am proud to work independently and help my team.” In addition to his work at St. Joseph Hospital, Justin enjoys video games, going to the library, reading, and information about World War II.
We will continue to share more about The PLUS Company throughout the month of December including additional client stories and where you can read more about their dedicated team members.