Pedro Martinez transitioned from a state-run residential facility to a home operated by Citizen Advocates in March of 2019. The home with Citizen Advocates, an Independent Residential Alternative, is more than a home. It is a place where the residents, though living in a supported environment, can live a life of their choosing.

For Pedro, that meant getting a job; it was apparent that being productive was essential to his wellbeing. Through our Career Visions Program, Pedro first had to learn and develop the skills he needed to thrive in the employment setting of his choice. We also supported Pedro through the process of obtaining his New York State ID so he could legally work. This was no easy task as we had to pinpoint where he was born and get a copy of his birth certificate. It took several road trips and a great deal of time to make that happen. Yet, Pedro was always appreciative, all while learning that hard work pays off and sticking with something, despite the difficulties, can achieve results. 

After developing these skills and getting his ID, we helped Pedro get a job in the kitchen at Citizen Advocates’ Saranac Lake Day Habilitation program. But Pedro wanted to do more. Our Career Visions team went to work and found Pedro an opportunity at Darrah and Darrah Autobody in Lake Placid. After an initial trial period, he was brought on to do a variety of jobs, including washing cars, properly disposing of garbage and recyclables, and cleaning.

Due to COVID and changes in safety protocol, there was less need for kitchen staff at our Day Habilitation program. Again, our Career Visions team sought out new opportunities for Pedro and landed him an interview at the Casa del Sol restaurant in Saranac Lake. He was hired as a dishwasher on the spot.

He now works part-time at Darrah and Darrah Autobody and Casa del Sol, loving the experiences, which aren’t just about work. Not long ago, Casa del Sol threw a staff appreciation party and Pedro enjoyed good food and playing pool with coworkers. There were laughs throughout the evening and Pedro experienced several firsts: the first time he had been to a party outside his home, his first white elephant gift exchange and his first time ordering a drink at a bar. (He chose diet Coke). 

We look forward to seeing Pedro continue to grow and live the life he chooses.