When Taylor Harris first walked into CEL, it was for a backup internship opportunity after her plan to intern in a school fell through. Her goal was to complete the requirement on her way to becoming a family and relationship therapist. What she didn’t anticipate was how her time with CEL members would change the entire course of her career.

“I had never worked with anybody of any age with any kind of disability before CEL. It was very new for me,” Taylor said.

Taylor quickly became a familiar face around CEL, building genuine bonds and finding so much joy in spending time with CEL members. She was kind and friendly, treating the teens and adults with developmental disabilities just like anyone else she would meet, and realized that the affection she felt was mutual.

“The members are always so glad to see me. I love being a person they enjoy having around, and being able to help them where they need it is amazing,” she said.

By the time her internship ended, she knew she couldn’t walk away from this fulfilling work, so she vowed to return as a volunteer to continue to make a difference in the lives of our members.

Not only that, but Taylor has shifted her career pursuit to work in a school setting, and landed a job as a special education classroom assistant to continue growing in her skills. The interaction with people with developmental disabilities at CEL ignited a passion to support this population to ensure they are seen, heard, and respected.

“After interning at CEL, I discovered a deep passion for working directly with people with disabilities,” she said. “This experience has really opened my eyes and opened my heart to people, specifically children, who have similar disabilities. I definitely want to continue on this path!”

Taylor encourages others to spend their time volunteering, saying, “There aren’t a lot of places like CEL. People can be oblivious to what people with disabilities are capable of. Volunteering can really open people’s eyes and I just think it would be a good experience for anyone to have.”

Particularly during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we appreciate dedicated volunteers like Taylor, a shining example of what it means to connect with and support individuals with disabilities, no matter what your previous experience may be.

Learn more about our volunteer program at ExperienceCEL.org/volunteer