Unlimited Potential

Record-Breaking Employment Opportunities Create More Member Independence

From early childhood, Natasia has taken great joy helping her father fix his car. When she dreamed about what she wanted to be when she grew up, she always pictured enrolling in auto repair courses in college and becoming an auto mechanic.

But when she started experiencing severe depression, it made it challenging to pursue her passion. She got derailed for a long time and it was apparent to her that she was different. Sadly, she says, she lowered her expectations and lost confidence in her mechanical prowess.

themselves and others how they make valuable contributions.

Enter the Envision Unlimited employment program. Thanks to the program, Natasia was able to persevere. Today, she works at an auto maintenance shop and is getting back on her feet and into society. For the first time in a long time, Natasia feels optimistic about her future.

“I was happy,” said Natasia. “I stuck with it. They always made sure I was doing what I’m supposed to do. After a while, I said, ‘Just stick with it and see where it leads.’ And it led to me getting a job at an auto maintenance shop and getting back into society, so it was a good thing.”

Natasia’s experience underscores the opportunity Envision Unlimited offers to adults who are disabled to experience employment and the chance to show

Today, Natasia and 125 Envision Unlimited members actively participate in Envision Unlimited employment programs which include working on readiness skills, seeking opportunities, and ultimately working on the job. Once employed they work an average of 20 hours a week for organizations such as FedEx, Jewel, Jiffy Lube, Macy’s, Marshall’s, The University of Chicago, and many other employers. One member recently was promoted to a full-time post at Walmart.

During the last year, the employment program experienced its best year ever, exceeding its government contracts for independent and supported employment and creating a record number of job placements. Recently, the program was expanded to include students with disabilities in the Chicago Public Schools.