Easter Seals Disability Services

Musick Soothes the Childrens' Soul
 by Shayna Wareing

Paul began his journey with Easter Seals Central Texas (ESCT) in the Summer of 2008. He was aware of the work ESCT does because of his brother’s experience with the Supported Employment Program.  The Supported Employment Program at ESCT has various component that help adults with disabilities to find and maintain jobs and live independently. 

After leaving a job that continually cut his hours or failed to schedule him for weeks at a time, Paul came to Curt Voelkel, ESCT Supported Employment Specialist, looking for a new job. Curt placed Paul with the YMCA of Round Rock Afterschool Program. Paul was placed at an elementary school in his neighborhood so he would be able to walk to and from work each day. With the assistance of the ESCT Supported Employment's Follow-Along Program and the dedication of his supervisor Adrian, Paul has overcome every obstacle and has become favorite counselor among the children.

Today, Paul continues to work with the children of YMCA in their summer program and will be returning to the same elementary school in the fall. Paul enjoys playing sports and gym games with the children. In quiet time, he teaches an ASL (American Sign Language) class so that children will be better able to communicate with him since he is legally deaf and blind.

To read more Easter Seals Central Texas Success Stories like Paul's, click here.