Twelve years ago, Christos (Chris) Xerakias and his family learned about AHRC Nassau‘s Supported Employment Program (SEMP). Based out of its Freeport location, SEMP supports people with disabilities to search for, gain, and retain their place in the workforce. Chris and his family considered employment an opportunity for fuller days and greater independence.
As a Porter for AHRC, Chris is part of a team responsible for keeping the facilities in great shape, so they are safe, sanitary, and accessible to others. Over the past twelve years, Chris has become increasingly independent. With support from his SEMP Employment Training Specialist (ETS), also known as a job coach, and with the help of his family, he’s established routines that help him succeed.
“Getting a job was the best thing for him,” said George Xerakias, Chris’s brother who plays an active role in his life. “He loves it. He knows he has a place where he can go to work and be a part of something, and it’s changed his life.”
At home, George supports Chris by helping him with meals and preparing for work. When Chris is ready for work, he hops on Able-Ride—a door to door ride share service for people with disabilities. While on duty, Chris actively cleans, sweeps, and mops and ensures restrooms are tidy, sanitary, and presentable for people to use.
Chris also maintains common areas and checks that people have access to what they need—utensils, paper towels, toiletries and the like. He takes tremendous pride in doing his job well, and his coworkers admire him for his strong work ethic and friendliness.
At work, Chris is known for being dependable and proactive. “I’ve been asking them, what else do they want me to do,” he said, referring to his daily task list. “Or if I forget sometimes, to vacuum something or take out the garbage, they let me know and I do it straight away.”
Outside of work, Chris likes to keep busy and explore his surroundings. During the summer, he takes peaceful walks and strolls by the beach. Each year, Chris and his family vacation in Greece, where they make lasting memories. He also loves shopping, often heading to Target to treat himself to something new.
Through SEMP, Chris has been able to share his skills and contribute in a meaningful way. It’s powerful how people can flourish when they are included and valued. As more businesses and organizations champion inclusive employment practices, success stories like Chris’s will no longer be the exception – they’ll simply be the norm.
Congratulations Chris. Cheers to your continued success.
To explore employment pathways at AHRC Nassau, please call or contact us at (516) 644-4800 or centralenrollment@ahrc.org.