Jose
Jose’s job at Club Fitness not only keeps him busy and productive, it keeps him fit. When Jose began working at the facility in mid-2008, he started working out with a personal trainer after his shifts. In seven months he lost 50 pounds, and now he loves to stay in shape. While he does a variety of activities in his workouts, he prefers the treadmill. “It’s my favorite,” said Jose.
Jose has an important job at Club Fitness. As a Porter, he is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the facility, from cleaning the men’s locker room (his favorite task) to wiping down fitness equipment to laundering towels for members. Jose likes this job more than other positions he’s had in the past. “I like that it is all indoors and that I get to meet different kinds of people,” he explained.
Jessica Paluch, Jose’s Vocational Coordinator, helped him with his job placement as well as training for his job. She now visits him and his supervisors twice a month as a part of Employment Services’ Follow Along program, which provides long-term support to ensure job retention for participants. The Club Fitness staff is impressed with Jose and his work ethic. “Jose has gained the respect of all the employees,” said Jessica. “His supervisors say that he’s a hard worker and a good asset to the team.”
Finding the perfect job has created a noticeable change in Jose, as well. “He’s become more outgoing and confident,” said Jessica. “And he has more confidence in himself that he can do tasks independently."
When he’s not at work or working out, Jose makes time to watch St. Louis Cardinals and St. Louis Rams games. He also enjoys bowling and wrestling.