Creating The Perfect Job Fit

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Michael - Creating The Perfect Job Fit


Every day, the individuals who receive services from The Choice Group go above and beyond to surpass the expectations that others have set for them in order to meet their goals of earning an income, contributing to the world, building relationships, and maintaining employment. Katie Knipple, of the Richmond team, shares the story of Michael, who, with a little support along the way, has overcome several barriers to competitive employment.

All too often, the perfect job may not exist in a google search or indeed posting, but instead, is created with the willingness of an employer to consider their business’ unmet needs in conjunction with the contributions that an individual brings. From there, a partnership is forged.

According to Meriam-Webster, the word customized can be defined as “to build, fit, or alter according to individual specifications.” This story of success is rooted in the customization of building, fitting, and altering to best fit Michael and his employer’s needs. Michael has been working at Planet Fitness (Grand Fitness) for 7 years, and is extremely proud of his contribution in the workplace. When initially approached about creating an opportunity for Michael to work, Planet Fitness (Grand Fitness) responded without hesitation, and has been a consistently welcoming place for him to work through changes in company structure, the pandemic, equipment upgrades, and more. Michael is excited to attend work every scheduled day, shares an infectiously upbeat personality with his co-workers, managers, and the members of the gym, and is responsible for ensuring that the floors of the gym are spotless.

Over the years, Michael has had support from Katie with developing, testing, and operating a variety of equipment options, and has landed on the perfect match for him. Using a modified backpack vacuum, with a heavy duty hose, a custom fit brace, and a personalized switch system, Michael is able to independently work. Katie has assisted Michael with learning how to advocate for himself, use his equipment, and navigate changes in the workplace. Katie continues to visit Michael each month to make sure his equipment is operating correctly, he is happy with his employment, and to troubleshoot anything that may come up along the way.

This success would not have been possible without the support of Planet Fitness(Grand Fitness). Dean Graham, General Manager for Planet Fitness (Grand Fitness), has been instrumental in making sure that Michael has what he needs from day to day, and is a valued member of the team. Dean and Michael share a special bond, each cheering the other on for success as they have grown both professionally, and personally.

Michael’s family has also taken great care to support him to reach his goals, encouraging him when obstacles arose, connecting him to resources, and filling in any gaps for needs he has had along the way.

When Michael is not at work, he can be found spending time with his family, his nieces and nephews, watching baseball, and vacationing at the beach. Michael is dedicated to his work, and reports that he’d like to work at Planet Fitness forever. Way to go Michael!
Location: Richmond, VA, USA

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