Lamont was referred to Good Vocations by his case manager at AmericanWork, a community-based rehabilitation services partner in Augusta. Lamont, 43, was unemployed and seeking job counseling and development. Good Vocations was his first-ever job opportunity, and he began his employment journey as a stocker at the Fort Gordon commissary.
However, his first job wasn’t the right job. According to Project Manager Patrick Ross, Lamont struggled to grasp the concept and speed needed to perform the stocking job adequately. But still, he was motivated to work. He was moved from stocking to custodial duties — and that’s what it took for Lamont to shine.
Lamont has grown to be an excellent employee. He is the first one to clock in and on time every day. He has not missed a day of work since he started in September of last year.
He’s also grown personally.
“When Lamont first started, he would not communicate with other people. He was extremely introverted, withdrawn, and required extensive coaching and constant redirection,” said Patrick. “He now comes in and speaks to everyone.”
Lamont also said “communicating with people” is now his favorite part of the job.
Since his time with Goodwill and Good Vocations, Lamont has become more independent, gained more self-confidence and is currently saving up money to get his own place.