A Young Woman’s Journey to Employment and Beyond

I started working at The Center for Enriched Living over two years ago.  Prior to finding CEL, I had so many discouraging experiences. Due to lack of experience, the door kept closing in my face, and that certainly did not make life any easier for someone who was ready and eager to enter the workforce. I came upon the Center and was so thrilled when I got the phone call that I had been hired!  It felt like such a rite of passage to finally be known as staff/employee. It was amazing to watch myself blossom as I continued to learn more office skills and front desk reception duties.

Last year, I had an opportunity to share my story at an off-site networking meeting. That became the kick-off to a string of amazing opportunities to share my story, empower others, and bring disabilities to light.  I was thrilled and completely overjoyed when I was asked to speak in front of an audience of more than 600 people at CEL’s Chefs Night event. Never had I encountered such nerves and such joy. That night was unbelievable and to have a friend on stage with me, was great. It means a lot to have someone there – encouraging, supporting, and reaching out a hand. A night full of big milestones!!

As my journey continued, I was asked back by popular demand, to speak at CEL’s Golf Outing. I felt so empowered, and confident.  It was quite humbling to have been recognized so highly and that so many had been touched by hearing my story.

In the midst of all this excitement, another door opened. I began training a new receptionist, who would be working in the morning at the front desk. This was a great experience and I was able to polish my own skills, while helping to teach the new staff the knowledge that I had learned in my daily work.

I continued to find new opportunities as we were celebrating 50 years of CEL, I again was taken aback when asked to be on the radio – WBBM. What a tremendous honor! This was so much fun, and I am glad that I continue to have opportunities to share what I have overcome.  There are always new ways to embrace the joys of working and fulfilling an Ambassador role at CEL.

This was topped off with an unbelievable experience of being on LIVE TV. The local FOX 32 Good Day Chicago had executive director, Harriet and myself on to talk about CEL’s 50^th birthday and the many ways that CEL enriches and enhances the lives of people with developmental disabilities.

As I sit at the front desk, it is very gratifying. Knowing the work that CEL does to always fill the need of acceptance allows me to feel like something that used to be so far off in the horizon is now a dream come true.

Thank you, Center for Enriched Living!

Liz Starshak is an accomplished public speaker, who also writes her own poetry. She loves animals, writing, and giving her time to help others in need. She is grateful for the many lessons that the workforce has taught her.