I haven’t written in a while, but I
have been on an amazing journey. I am
employed and have had several different job opportunities. I was approached in the spring about working
for the Blind Institute of Technology (BIT) and getting them set up on
Salesforce Non-Profit Service Pack. I took the challenge, worked with awesome
people who mentored me through the customization process, did a lot of online
learning, and got their CRM setup. I was then hired as BIT’s recruiter. So now, I get to recruit people and get them
interviews with companies that have heard the mission of BIT and who want to
help us VI’s (visually impaired) to get gainful employment. I am honored and at times completely blown
away by what a privilege this job is for me.
Most of my readers know that I used
to work in the Biotech field and that those days are gone because of vision
loss. It is really hard to face the reality
that everything you were educated and trained for is gone. However, through connections at my job I have
had the privilege to learn and be trained in many different skills that allow
me to work from the comfort of my home with all my assistive and adaptive technology.
I have to interject here that nothing I do is menial or boring. I have gotten to interview for contracts
where those conducting the interview knew I was visually impaired and could see
beyond my obstacles and see the potential I have. Through my hard work and
tenacity I have proven that a VI can do a good job. I can’t do everything, but what I can do, I
can do well.
I am here to tell my fellow VI’s
there is a hope and a future. You can still work and as your condition worsened
(if it is degenerative) you can have an employer that is not only compassionate
but really understands your struggles and is willing to work with you to become
the best employee you can be. I have met
and am continuing to meet some of the most amazing, people. In the 20 plus years I have struggled with my
retinal condition I never thought I would have the life I have today.
I love my job because as a recruiter
for BIT I get to tell everyone and anyone who struggles with vision issues that
there really is life after vision loss and then I get to help them find a job
with some of the most generous companies.
BIT is blazing the trail and the word is spreading like wildfire that
our demographic is capable and willing to work hard. We are getting recognition
and companies are taking notice. BIT has
made some serious inroads in showing corporate America what we as VI’s can
bring to the table in spite of our struggles. I can’t wait to see what the
future holds.
