Quest’s employment services provide tailored solutions for individuals with developmental disabilities through community-based employment. As an employment specialist, Erin Pfaff has helped clients gain meaningful work experiences over the past year.

Erin’s journey into disability advocacy

Erin’s inspiration to make a difference in the field began at a young age. She admired the work of her mother and sister, both of whom were special education teachers. This upbringing ignited her dedication to working with individuals with developmental disabilities. Erin’s passion blossomed through her hands-on experiences as an educational sign language interpreter.

After transitioning to a disability advocacy organization, she gained invaluable experience in employment services by crafting educational programs and providing one-on-one guidance to help individuals pass driver’s education and citizenship tests.

Empowering clients through On-the-Job Trainings

With seven years of experience in the field, Erin now brings this wealth of knowledge to her role at Quest. One of the highlights of her job is the dynamic nature of “On-the-Job Training” (OJT). Partnering with Florida’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services, OJT is a hands-on teaching method that allows trainees to practice job duties in real or simulated work environments for a period of six to eight weeks.

“Many of my clients have never held a job before and may have believed they couldn’t,” Erin shares. “That’s why I love OJTs; there’s little room for failure, and mistakes are simply part of the learning journey.”

As clients build confidence each week, Erin’s goal is for them to work as independently as possible to achieve meaningful employment. A key part of her approach is nurturing the relationships with her clients and their families. By setting realistic expectations and encouraging open communication, everyone can feel comfortable asking for help, leading to effective solutions and sustained motivation amid challenges. Often, she discovers that client success hinges on family support and investment.

“Sometimes it’s about trying one more thing and not giving up on clients. If I believe there’s a solution, I’ll keep pushing,” she states. “It takes a village. Neither the parents, the clients nor I can do it alone.”

The importance of community partnerships for success

Cultivating strong partnerships within the local business community where OJTs take place is essential for successful outcomes. Erin collaborates with companies to provide the staffing solutions they need while also placing individuals in suitable work environments. When a specific OJT dis not the right fit, she advocates for adjusting a client’s placement into a role that better aligns with their strengths. This ensures a win-win for the business and the individual.

“If I have a client who is quieter and prefers a less crowded environment, I can pinpoint opportunities with partners who can cater to their needs,” she explains. “We are fortunate to partner with businesses that are supportive and flexible in making things work for our individuals.”

Expanding resources for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community

Erin’s work has recently taken an exciting turn, thanks to incoming referrals of deaf clients. As a fluent American Sign Language user and certified interpreter, she is keenly aware of the limited resources available for the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. Looking ahead, she is eager to leverage her skills to provide essential resources and create more employment pathways for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Quest appreciates Erin’s commitment to helping clients gain meaningful work experiences, which is an essential component of living a full life. If you’d like to learn more about Quest’s Employment Services and how you can get involved, click here.