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Opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities #858620

Asked February 06, 2024, 12:40 PM EST

Hello,

I work with individuals with disabilities and I assist them with finding opportunities after high school. I currently have one individual who is an AVID horticulturist. He truly knows almost any and everything about plants, trees, flowers, etc... I am in the process of trying to find a place(s) for this individual to either volunteer, work, or receive job training in the Cleveland Area.

Any help or support would be greatly appreciated. Thank You!

Cuyahoga County Ohio

Expert Response

Hello Stephen.

Thank you for your inquiry.

That sounds great!

Although I do not specifically have anything in mind, I am happy to do some research.

The nature of this student’s disabilities will impact the type of work which will be suitable.

Is this individual fully ambulatory?


Shelley B.  Replied February 07, 2024, 5:29 PM EST

The individual is fully ambulatory and has no physical restrictions. He has Autism, and his biggest challenges present in socializing and reading social cues. He gets very excited, especially about anything horticulture related, and at times will not be able to understand when the other party is ready for the conversation to end. 

This individual is beyond knowledgeable and has years of experience working in the field. He has experience working at a local lawn center, local church tending to their landscaping and gardening needs, and is enrolled in an Environment Education Program through his local school district.

He has performed the following job duties: General Landscaping and Gardening, Maintenance and Greenhouse, Watering and Transplanting, Plant Identification and Care, maintaining and spreading compost, cleaning and maintaining birdboxes, maintaining garden/labyrinth health and appearance, stewarding indoor plants, assisting with office related tasks on days whether wasn’t cooperative, and Customer Service. He has been described by his supervisors as consistent, professional, accommodating to moving targets of duties and tasks, takes directions and feedback well, provides valuable and informative feedback, and his presence is one of joy, reliability, professionalism, and a drive to get the most accomplished as possible when he is working.

Thank you for your help and time.

The Question Asker Replied February 08, 2024, 8:17 AM EST

Has your student considered him becoming a Cuyahoga County Volunteer Master Gardener?

Here is a link with additional information on how to become a Master Gardener in Cuyahoga County.

https://www.cuyahogamg.org/MGHowToJoin/MGHowToJoin.html

Volunteer Master Gardens are quite a diverse group of people who all love horticulture.

I’m certain that his extensive experience will be appreciated.

I also believe that his involvement as a Volunteer Master Gardener could help him discover additional educational or career pathways in horticulture.


Shelley B.  Replied February 09, 2024, 3:11 PM EST

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