Nearly ten years ago, Jethro began his employment adventure at BO-beau Kitchen and Bar in Ocean Beach, San Diego which has given him the opportunity to spend his vacation time on adventures of his own! A client with Toward Maximum Independence (TMI), a nonprofit serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Jethro helps to make the BO-beau kitchen run smoothly as a line cook and dishwasher. He enjoys prepping fresh vegetables and seafood for BO-beau’s amazing chefs. According to Jethro’s BO-beau Manager Luna, he is an invaluable part of their team and does an excellent job!
Four years ago, Jethro went on a week vacation to Wyoming, Montana and North Dakota by himself, without knowing anyone there! He then traveled to Alaska, where he visited Nome and Anchorage. And last year, before the pandemic, Jethro traveled to Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Montgomery, Alabama; and Jackson, Mississippi. He visited the civil rights museums and many other sites. Next year, Jethro would like to visit Nashville and Chattanooga, Tennessee and Birmingham, Alabama. Civil rights museums will be high on his list of sites and the main reason for his trip.
Jethro said that he would also like to visit the American Pickers Store, which is popularized by the History Channel show American Pickers in which two men travel around the country purchasing historical items from private collections.
Jethro’s spirit for adventure is inspiring to everyone at BO-beau, as well as Jethro’s TMI Supported Employment Job Coach Andy Palasciano.
“Jethro is a man with a great sense of humor and a big heart,” said Andy. “I have been his Job Coach for many years and his happiness means a great deal to me. It is awesome to hear about his travels!”
With TMI's assistance, Jethro’s choices have helped him to succeed both professionally and personally.
Way to go, Jethro!
Thank you to BO-beau for partnering with us to help transform Jethro’s life!
It is the mission of the Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) Supported Employment program to support, enhance and educate the general workforce population on the contributing value of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through personalized integration, training and advocacy, TMI helps to develop the capabilities and strengths of all people desiring to work.
(Thank you to Andy Palasciano for contributing to this story and for being an amazing TMI Job Coach.)
Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) has been transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1981 and the Deaf and Hard of Hearing since 2000. In 2020, we launched Disabled Veteran Employment Services. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living and Family Support Services throughout San Diego, Riverside and Imperial Counties. To stay connected with us, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion.