Today we’d like to introduce you to Jada Williams.
Hi Jada, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I came to Jacksonville, FL when I received a job offer to become a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. I’m very passionate about helping the underserved population with self-improvement and career enhancements.
I had a high caseload of over a hundred clients. I wanted to be able to effectively help my clients on a one-on-one basis. I also was diagnosed with Anxiety; so, I am able to relate with my clients.
I knew that I was more than qualified to become a vendor. I applied and shortly after was approved to be a certified vendor for the State of Florida’s Vocational Rehabilitation program.
I pride myself on building therapeutic relationships with my clients by being understanding of their situations.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wouldn’t say smooth, nor would I say it was rocky but a steady climb uphill. Challenges that I have faced are building a team, obtaining partnerships and keeping a consistent candidate pool to refer to employers.
Competing against larger employment vendors has also been a struggle but I believe with us being a smaller organization we are able to provide our clients with one-on-one attention, able to form a lasting bond so they know and feel they have our support.
I’m a former Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and that has helped me because I know the ins and outs of the program and its process.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As founder of Prestige Workforce, I help individuals with developmental, physical and mental disabilities re-enter the workforce with confidence.
Our goal for the rest of the year is to help fifty families gain financial independence.
The process does take some time, due to the fact that all of my clients must be customers of Vocational Rehabilitation first. Once they become eligible, then they can choose an employment provider—such as myself—to help them find their next career. We also provide career coaching, on-the-job training, self-advocacy training and money management.
I am so proud of the clients I helped achieve financial independence.
The careers we specialize in are customer service, hospitality and the healthcare industry.
I believe what sets me apart is my knowledge of the disability community, my insight and my work ethic.
I am determined to become the premier employment provider for individuals with disabilities in Northeast Florida.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I believe being able to resonate with the clients I feel has helped me become successful. Understand that everyone’s circumstances are different, and each case should be individualized. I treat all of my clients like extended family because I honestly want to see them do well and live productive lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.prestigeworkforce.org
Image Credits
JoAnn Crumpler Photography
