Through the cooperation and collaboration of staff in WorkSource Sunnyside and WorkSource Columbia Basin, a customer with a disability has started a great new job, according to Service Integration Coordinator Josh Hanson.

Tony had been coming to WorkSource Columbia Basin for about a month seeking employment and was referred to the Customized Employment Program. Hanson met with Tony and helped him navigate the Web and possible referrals for position out of the area that he was interested in. Community Resource Coordinator Rick Guerra provided a gas voucher so Tony could attend interviews in Spokane and Kent. The Customized Employment program helped with transportation expenses and a possible on-the-job training with the employer.

Following a second interview, Tony was hired at $9 per hour as a machine operator. The Dislocated Worker Program and the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation staff at WorkSource Sunnyside is helping with relocation expenses and lodging in Kent until Tony receives his first paycheck.