MRS provides new Michigan resident the support she needed to land a job

With unwavering determination, Katherine transformed an on-the-job evaluation into a life-changing opportunity — landing the job and reclaiming her path to success.

In February 2024, Katherine moved from New Jersey to Michigan and began the process of becoming established in her new state. After spending hours trying to find a new job, she reached out to Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) for help.

Katherine was looking for a job that would accommodate her disabilities, which tax her endurance and make multitasking challenging. A hard worker, she was sure she could do well in a job if an employer would only give her a chance.

Her MRS counselor made the referral to Peckham for an on-the-job evaluation. Making the most of this opportunity, she showed her MRS counselor, Peckham and her on-the-job evaluator that she was the amazing employee she believed she could be.

“Before I sought the help of MRS, I was mired in fruitless hours of searching job posting websites, only to be met with postings for jobs the basic functions of which fell outside of my limitations,” shared Katherine. “It felt like sorting through a laundry list of things I couldn't do and opportunities I couldn't pursue; it was very disheartening. MRS and their contracted partners changed that. They were able to match me with a job in the community that wholeheartedly accepted me, limitations and all.”

Not long after her on-the-job evaluation, Katherine was encouraged to apply for a position with Courtyard Lansing, which she landed.  

“Obtaining my employment goals has helped me feel more secure financially and so much better about myself overall,” said Katherine. “After a couple years that were monopolized by hospital visits, it's nice to feel like I'm finally finding my way back to normalcy.”  

Katherine’s journey is a powerful reminder that, with the right support and a willingness to persevere, anyone can turn challenges into opportunities and build a brighter, more independent future.

“From my first meeting, I have encountered positive, nonjudgmental people who seem to genuinely care about my goals,” Katherine shared. “MRS and their contracted partners have supported me every step of the way. When I started working night shift, my job counselor [at Peckham] even came out to visit me at one in the morning!”