Erin Hennessy has dedicated her career to empowering students with disabilities. With 12 years of experience as a Registered Behavior Technician, she transitioned into teaching at Quest Kids Academy in 2022.
Building Essential Life Skills for the Transition to Adulthood
Through leading the work-study program and overseeing specialized classes in employment skills, financial literacy and more, Erin teaches teenagers and young adults to learn vital transition skills for adulthood.
“We work directly with the students and their families to figure out where they hope to be in the future and what skills we can work on to help them reach the goals they set for themselves,” Erin says.
One way she helps is by leading volunteer opportunities for work-study program students. Once a week, she takes them to Clean the World, where they sort soap bars and plastic bottle amenities collected from the hospitality industry.
“I love that we report to the same supervisor, Mr. Michael, who assigns our tasks. It’s like going to work every week where you have the same supervisor,” Erin says. “You do not have the same daily tasks, but they are similar and predictable. You can develop a skill, receive feedback and then apply it regularly.”
Supporting Job Placement and Retention
Over two years, students have learned to initiate tasks independently and understand expectations without explicit instructions. Erin is thrilled by their growing confidence and independence, which she carries into her new role as the youth employment specialist.
“Once you reach the age of 22, the services you receive decrease. Your access to your school, therapies and education are gone. So, my passion is getting our students ready before they hit that age cap so they can have a smoother transition into their future,” Erin says.
In her role, Erin facilitates work-based learning experiences for school-age students from Quest Kids Academy and the community seeking paid employment opportunities. She works with the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation to visit community job sites and develop individualized job placement plans.
After helping a student secure a job, Erin provides onsite job training to maintain retention. Gradually, she steps back and checks in with the supervisors for feedback on additional coaching needs. The input is typically positive and proves our individuals can thrive if given attention, time and the right opportunities.
Real-World Experience: Promoting the Importance of Inclusion
One notable success is a student who participated in the work-study program for three years. For two years, he worked at Blossom Artisanal, a social venture created by Quest, Inc. to provide a safe and supportive work environment for adults and teenagers with developmental disabilities.
This year, he secured a work-based learning experience at the Castle Hotel, where he prepares linens for the hotel rooms. Working two days a week after school, he applies the skills he learned at Blossom while gaining real-world experience.
“Living a full life is about giving people with developmental disabilities the opportunities that the rest of us sometimes take for granted,” Erin says. “It’s about inclusion and being out in the world experiencing life at work surrounded by people and community.”
Learn more about how Quest’s Employment Services help individuals and businesses with their employment needs here.
