Loren Holland has his first summer job last year at Licking/Knox Goodwill Industries’ Business Service Warehouse

“I wanted to see if I could make new friends and get a little bit of money,” he said. “I didn’t want to sit all day at home.”

He enjoyed it so much, he decided to come back this summer.

Loren, 16, who wants to become a diesel mechanic, spent several weeks assembling products, stacking boxes and wrapping pallets.

It’s been hard work, but the people working there are very nice, he said.

Loren, of Heath, is one of 57 local teens who participated in Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities’ Summer Youth Work Experience program this year

The program helps prepare students with disabilities, age 14 to 21, for life after high school by giving them the opportunity to participate in several weeks of paid community work experiences.

This year, students could choose between four different employment providers, offering experiences at 11 different sites, including daycares, stores and restaurants, as well as Licking/ Knox Goodwill’s warehouse and transportation department. 

Summer is a great time to have students come in  and use their skills as full-time employees take vacation and contracts increase, said David Seimetz, Vice President of Business Services at Goodwill. They look forward to hosting Summer Work experience participants every year.

“We are fortunate to have them here,” he said. “And they get that experience of a  hands-on work environment, that will help them into the future. 

Todd “Clayton” Francis, 16, worked last year at Goodwill’s transportation department detailing cars. 

This summer, he decided to try something new and worked with employment provider Greenleaf Job Training Services at the Giant Eagle in Heath.

He spent several weeks learning to stock shelves and bag groceries.  

Clayton said he enjoys earning money — to add to his Lego collection — and might be interested in a job at McDonalds or Walmart after graduation. 

If you have a child, 14 years of age or older with a disability, reach out to OOD for more information on how the agency can help your child with career exploration, skill development and strategies to get a job after graduation. Counselors begin talking with students and their parents, about next summer’s opportunities, beginning in the fall. To find out more, go to  ood.ohio.gov/information-for-individuals/services/student-services/high-school/students-14-plus.