By: Ray Simpson, The Arc Minnesota Self-Advocacy Program Intern
“Community is where compassion and self-advocacy start”- Mao
This month for the Self-advocacy spotlight, Mao, shares her experience with employment. Mao works as a community coordinator at L’Arche. She helps plan events, meets with potential consultants, helps coordinate donations, and fundraisers. Other duties include, helping with social media pages, and coffee with core members.
Mao was hired at L’Arche after already having a fellowship with Cow Tipping Press. “Networking is so important”, Mao advised. The person who offered her the job at L’Arche is the executive director of both Cow tipping Press and L’Arche. Mao’s advice on getting employment is, “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Just show up and let them know the job is really important to you and find out how to get it.”
Mao was fearful at first about getting employment. “I was afraid to ask for help when I have an access need, so I didn’t think I would ever get a job. It took me a long time to ask, because I worry about putting someone out or asking my boss to do things for me.” Now, working at L’Arche, Mao has learned how to speak up for herself and has gained self-esteem and self-worth. She teaches others to do the same and has built a community in and out of her job.
Mao chose her job because she felt it was her calling. “I’m great at speaking about my disability and sharing my experiences. I like to help people and work as a team. I get to do what I love.” Mao feels connected to the people she works with, because they share the same core values. Mao’s core values are mutual aid and community building. Mutual aid is when people in a community come together to support one another. Mao says she knows what kind of future she wants after working with L’Arche.
Mao shared that she is on SSI and some of her concerns about finances. She has had some issues when she has had her funds cut from SSI. “I love what I do. I also get worried about how many jobs I have.” Mao has to keep track of the amount of money she receives each month, because it affects her state and SSI benefits. If she goes over a certain amount, she won’t qualify for housing or other crucial services.
Mao was excited to talk about her favorite accomplishment in her employment journey. She exclaimed, “I did it! I didn’t think I would ever get hired for a job, but I did and I’m so proud! This job is so fulfilling!” Mao loves working at L’Arche where she can serve her community and other self-advocates. Her efforts have allowed her to achieve her goals and receive employment.