Derrick Dawson has been working with MCIL for about two years and in that time he has made so
me huge steps forward. He is more involved in his community. Derrick participates in MCIL activities, including Peer Mentoring, Social Night, Sign Language class, Computer Lab and Bus Training. He works at Office Max as a stocker, taking items from the pallets and puts them on the sales floor. He also participates in Epilepsy Foundation activities.
Derrick has become more outgoing and is a great member of our programs. When he was asked how this change took place he answered, “Working with you guys has made a big change in my life. It showed me that I could do things I didn’t think I could do.” and “I just stopped letting people tell me what to do.” He has learned “computer skills quicker than I expected!” “Your groups make me want to get out and come to the groups as much as I can!” “Being with the right people makes me feel more comfortable learning new things. I think it comes down to the way that person is teaching it.”
Working with us at MCIL has helped Derrick feel like he has the ability to control his own life. “Everything has changed. Now I’m telling people, no, I want to do it!” “You guys have been a big help!” “I see myself continuing to work and not letting things worry me. I also see myself wanting to get involved in more groups.”
It has been exciting to see Derrick grow, becoming more involved and taking charge of his life.
