The individuals supported by Work Opportunities Unlimited (WOU) receive tailored services to help them succeed in the workplace. Savannah wanted to find a meaningful role that would help her get closer to her dream job as a social worker or service coordinator, so she was referred to WOU for supported employment. With assistance from Career Resource Specialist Emma Blouin on WOU’s Bristol-Plymouth, MA team, Savannah is happily employed as an Individual Support Staff Member with Better Community Living!
Savannah
Emma dedicates her days to breaking down barriers to employment for people with disabilities, so she was excited to help Savannah develop her skills and reenter the workforce in a role where she could make a positive impact on people’s lives. When they met in the summer of 2024, Emma learned that Savannah had a narrow view of what type of work she was qualified to do, based on her previous experience working as a housekeeper and safety sitter in a healthcare setting, but Emma could see that Savannah had a lot of potential. Emma says, “Savannah is extremely intelligent, very socially aware, and inquisitive, and she’s always striving to better her life for herself and her kids. A large part of us working together was exploring different fields and learning where her skills could cross transfer.” Savannah was eager to explore job opportunities with Emma’s support, considering roles such as working in healthcare reception as well as at rehabilitation services and behavioral services providers. During job development Emma also helped Savannah write a resume, practice mock interviews, and identify job leads. Savannah obtained a position at a community support agency shortly into their job search. However, after a few challenging weeks, Savannah recognized that the work environment was not the right fit for her. Savannah needed a job with consistent hours so she could accommodate her two children’s daycare and school schedules. Unfortunately, the agency was understaffed and she was often asked to work past her scheduled hours.
Rather than becoming discouraged at not finding the right employment fit with the community support agency, Savanah demonstrated resilience and determination as she and Emma resumed job development. Savannah and Emma attended multiple job fairs and participated in professional development opportunities to expand her network. She received a professional headshot from a local job club and presented her resume to various employers. Savannah’s persistence paid off in May 2025, when she earned a per‑diem role as an Individual Support Staff Member with Better Community Living in Fairhaven, MA. Emma explains, “Better Community Living works with a similar population to WOU. They help people with different intellectual and developmental disabilities build up life skills through group outings or one-on-one events. They provide many people with a sense of purpose and community.” Savannah helps her clients develop relationships and build independence with a variety of engaging activities, like shopping at stores, exploring volunteer opportunities, or practicing social interactions on field trips.
Savannah quickly found fulfillment in her work and began receiving positive feedback from both clients and staff. After 90 days, her per‑diem role transitioned into a part‑time position with more consistent hours. By November, Savannah was offered a full‑time role – a testament to her dedication and the strong relationships she built within the organization. Her case load increased and she was able to personalize her services. This slow ramp-up in hours was perfect for helping Savannah successfully transition to full-time work and manage her kids’ schedules without feeling overwhelmed. Emma supported her by offering professional development advice, such as how to discuss room for growth at work, before Savannah successfully closed services with WOU. In May 2026, Savannah celebrated her one-year anniversary as a Better Community Living employee!
Savannah’s outstanding performance supporting her clients at Better Community Living is evident in the following comments from her supervisors. The Assistant Director of Community Supports recognizes Savannah’s support of an individual who has ODD, sharing, “He has burned bridges with most staff members. Savannah has been keeping him on schedule. Savannah, thank you for your hard work and dedication.” The Director of Community Supports, referencing a client that had a difficult time trusting people, said of Savannah, “it is clear they enjoy spending time with you. He feels respected and valued! We appreciate your patience and dedication!”
Emma has witnessed a lot of growth in Savannah thanks to her incredible work ethic and the support she received from WOU. “Before services Savannah wasn’t as confident in her skill set. Her end goal is to be a social worker, so it was cool to see her realize she can help people without a social worker license and find similar fulfillment. Now, she is so confident in the work she provides to her clients,” says Emma. “I am incredibly proud of Savannah – not only for securing employment, but for building a meaningful career that offers fulfillment, growth, and stability for both herself and her sons.” Way to go, Savannah!
