BY GAIL MATSUNAGA
From Dateline (May 6, 2004)

WorkAbility Program Puts Students, Alumni to Work

Students and alumni with physical or learning disabilities are successfully finding jobs thanks to the WorkAbility IV program. Currently in its seventh year, WorkAbility IV is funded with a $97,825 grant from the California Department of Rehabilitation.

Program services include workshops, individual counseling, job development tailored to skills and education experience, and a weekly job search support group.

Ninety students and alumni with mobility/physical impairments, learning disabilities and functional disabilities are participating this year.

Among those who have benefited from WorkAbility IV is alumna Linnea Schamber (B.S. human services ’02), who works as a program instructor at Orange County ARC – a county organization that serves people with disabilities, providing broad-based support services, outreach and employment opportunities.

“Leslie [Broyhill, WorkAbility IV job developer] found this one for me,” says Schamber. “Even though I, too, was looking for employment, she would find jobs I had never heard about. I know I could not pay to have a better service than what was provided by her.

“I am a one-on-one instructor,” she continues. “I have a client who has multiple sclerosis and is wheelchair-bound. I plan activities and make sure the days have meaning. It is so me.”

Schamber is finishing her master’s degree in behavioral science – gerontology option – from CSU Dominguez Hills. Ultimately, she wants to continue working with disabled adults. Her current employer has expressed interest in her joining the administrative ranks.

For more information on the WorkAbility Program, go to www.fullerton.edu/workability/index.htm.