Content Warning – This post contains content about an individual in despair that may be triggering for some individuals.
When Michael’s life was turned upside down in 2018 following a stroke at work, he found it challenging to re-enter the workplace. The stroke left him with difficulties in working memory, speech, and his ability to focus.
During the pandemic, Michael found himself without a job and on disability. He began experiencing a sense of loneliness and a lack of meaningful purpose which led to a decline in his mental health. He got to a point where he felt like he had little to live for, and began to investigate medical assistance in dying (MAID). Despite feeling hopeless and discouraged, Michael sought help from Agilec as a last resort in regaining a purpose through re-employment.
Michael was matched with an Employment Coach (EC) and welcomed with an empathetic ear. “When I first met with Michael, he was experiencing extreme anxiety at the thought of entering any work environment. For the first few months of our work together, he found it difficult to independently complete job search activities, struggled to manage his mental health, and communicated his overall feelings of hopelessness at future employment” his EC shared.
Although Michael had little hope and therefore lacked motivation, his EC was determined to find him something that would fit. As they got more acquainted, he shared stories about a past job working as a counsellor for youth in the criminal justice system. When he spoke about his work there, his EC saw his face light up. After some coaching and contemplation, Michael realized that returning to social services could be the perfect fit for him in his search for a more inclusive and accommodating workplace.
The Agilec team worked together to find Michael suitable employment that matched his interests, skills, and experience. An opportunity was identified and a meeting facilitated between him and the program manager at a local homeless shelter. In less than a month, Michael was hired on as a relief worker and moved into a full-time permanent position not long after.
Michael is grateful to Agilec for helping him to regain the skills and confidence he needed to re-enter the workforce. “If it wasn’t for you guys, I wouldn’t be alive right now” Michael said.
Michael’s story is one of resilience, inclusiveness, and the transformative power of believing in the inherent worth of every individual.
Since this story was originally shared, Michael joined the Agilec team in Orillia as an Employment Consultant. He has kept his connection with the local homeless shelter, working as an outreach liaison between the two organizations.
“Michael has been a wonderful addition to our Orillia Agilec Team. His dedication and compassion to support individuals in our community has driven his success in his recent months of employment with us. We appreciate him and all he brings to our team.” – Theresa Bott, Program Manager at Agilec
