MRS helps customer reenter the workforce after 10-year gap

After nearly a decade out of the workforce, Debra made the decision to connect with Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) to rebuild her career path. Having last been employed in 2014, she was motivated to pursue a position as a receptionist or customer service representative, but recognized she needed support to successfully reenter today’s evolving workplace.

As part of her vocational rehabilitation plan, Debra participated in a clerical On-the-Job Evaluation. The assessment revealed that she had a strong foundation in office-related tasks, but there were gaps in her clerical skill set due to advancements in workplace technology over the previous 10 years. With this information, her MRS counselor worked closely with her to identify the next step: enrollment in the Michigan Works! Senior Community Service Employment Program.

Through this program, Debra gained valuable, updated skills and hands-on experience. Debra participated in the senior work program for about six months before landing her first job in a decade – working part-time at the front desk of the Michigan Works! Service Center where she was training. She was responsible for greeting customers, answering phones, checking individuals in, and completing light receptionist duties.

Follow-up services by MRS provided Debra with the on-going support needed to rebuild confidence, sharpen her clerical abilities and successfully reintegrate into a structured work environment.

During her year at the front desk, Debra began experiencing mental health challenges related to the demands of the role. Recognizing the importance of finding a better fit, she made the decision to reconnect with her MRS counselor and reopen her case to explore alternative employment options.

With the continued support of MRS through job placement services, Debra secured a new position at Shore Pointe Rehabilitation Facility. In this role, she works part time performing duties that align well with her strengths, including greeting customers, answering phones, data entry, filing and scheduling appointments.

“MRS and my counselor helped me to gain the necessary skills needed to reenter the workforce after 10 years,” shared Debra. “They also gave me the confidence I needed to maintain my position at Shore Pointe. I am very grateful to my counselor and MRS for the help they have given me.”

Today, Debra reports high job satisfaction and a renewed sense of confidence in her abilities.