*Please note: this story was originally featured in SOAR365’s Fall NEWZ publication. Click here to view the full newsletter.

When you walk into the pool area at the Shady Grove YMCA, you might see Mark hard at work. He cleans the windows, checks the pool’s chemical levels, and makes sure the floor is safe and dry. But Mark is doing more than just his job – he’s also chasing a dream. 

Mark came to the YMCA through SOAR365’s Supported Employment program. 

“I like working at the Y because it’s fun,” Mark says. “When my work is done, I train in the water because my dream is to become a lifeguard.”

Britt Cope, Senior Aquatic Director at the time, remembers his first meeting with Mark. 

“We sat down with Mark, his parents, his job coach, and our staff to talk about what Mark could do and what he wanted,” Britt explains. “Mark’s dream was to be a lifeguard. So, we built a job where he could begin with pool safety and cleaning tasks but also learn from our instructors. It was exciting to imagine what his job could be.” 

Mark’s SOAR365 job coach is also key to his success. Job coaches use tools like visual schedules and checklists, which help Mark stay organized and confident at work. 

“Mark is very sharp,” says Chris Martin, Director of Employment Services. “Sometimes he just needs a reminder of what task comes next.” Chris has been excited to see Mark’s growth. “When people like Mark find a job they love, and they get to shine, that’s when we know we’ve done our job too,” says Chris. 

“Working with SOAR365 to get this job was great,” says Mark. “They helped me find work that really fit me.”

Mark’s presence also shows YMCA members what the organization’s mantra of “for all” really means. 

“It’s important that the people who walk into our building see themselves in the staff who work here,” Britt says. “By giving opportunities to people with disabilities, we live out our mission and make our community stronger.”