My start with HireAbility Vermont:
As a child, I attended Rythm of the Rein and fell in love with the atmosphere. Rythm of the Rein provides equine assisted activities and therapies to individuals regardless of their situation. Their mission is to enhance the well-being of individuals with physical, cognitive and emotional challenges for a better quality of life. Back then my favorite horse was Holly, my mom even designed a t-shirt with her on it.
I have cerebral palsy and was on an IEP at Williamstown High School when I expressed interest in working. I was referred to HireAbility Vermont. From my time at Rythm of the Rein, I knew I wanted to work with horses.
My HireAbility Vocational Counselor, Lee Reilly and Jacqueline Rogers, an Employment Consultant Supervisor at VABIR, reached out to Rhythm of the Rein. Dianne Lashoones the founder and program manager coordinated with PATH intl. therapeutic driving instructor and Barn Manager, Beth Belote, who began to assess what opportunities might be available to me.
Although Rhythm of the Rein was not currently in a position to hire anyone, Beth, remaining true to their mission, offered me the chance to gain experience and insight into the work by participating in a Paid Work Experience.
This means that HireAbility would pay me to work at Rhythm of the Rein while I learned and gained skills and experience. My dad agreed to be my on-the-job support.
I did various cleaning tasks like stalls, feeding bowls, and riding gear. I fed and watered the horses, did hay, swept, prepped premixing soak, and some other odds and ends like helping with posters and first aid kits. My favorite thing to learn was how to lead the horses.
My advice for anyone who is thinking about connecting with HireAbility Vermont:
Prior to this opportunity, I had not yet experienced employment. I loved my time at Rythm of the Rein. Although they are not hiring at the moment, it brought me joy to be there with my dad and I think we’ll volunteer there when we can. Now that I have started to build a resume, I’m excited for the future. Reach out and let HireAbility help you get your start.