Jeremiah, who resides in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, was diagnosed with ADHD in 2018. He struggles to focus at times and can be easily distracted. He was also diagnosed with anxiety around the same time and finds it difficult to take on new tasks as he becomes unsure when faced with jobs he doesn’t know how to do. Using coping strategies such as taking several deep breaths when feeling overwhelmed helps him alleviate those symptoms.
Jeremiah learned about Neil Squire from an employer interested in hiring him. He joined the Creative Employment Options program in May to get some assistance with career development and transitioning into his first job.
Working with Neil Squire staff, he learned how to create a resume and cover letter tailored to carpentry, his field of interest. He now has a completed resume and a cover letter template to tailor to job ads.
He was provided with resources on effective networking and how to navigate the hidden job market, as well as wellness tips. He also prepared for interviews by practicing common interview questions and using the STAR method to answer behaviour questions.
Jeremiah had previously received assistance from (CNYC) to graduate high school, so when he was invited for an interview there it felt familiar to him. He impressed the Executive Director and was offered full-time summer employment as a Carpenter/Woodworking Trainee.
Jeremiah expressed excitement to work at CNYC and would love to return to school in the fall to further his career in carpentry. His employer has commended Jeremiah for being a “great young man.”
They were aware of what Jeremiah needed to be successful, and through open communication and honesty, have created a safe workplace for Jeremiah to thrive in.
Jeremiah’s been enjoying his new job.
“Over the past little while I have been working on the canoe that we’ve been building in the shop, I am excited to see it on the river,” Jeremiah shares, discussing the work he has been doing. “We have also become a source of drum rims for different groups needing them.
“I’ve learned so many great skills that I know that will help me in my school in the fall.”
