From Client to Coworker:

Isaac’s Journey of Growth at TASC

As part of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we’re excited to share the story of Isaac, a TASC client who has grown from a participant in our programs to a full-time employee. His journey reflects the incredible impact that support, job coaching, and determination can have in transforming lives. 

Isaac’s journey began in 2016 when he entered TASC as a client in the Antelope Valley, working to address behavioral issues.

“It was really hard for me to grasp at first, but with support from the staff and consistent reminders, I learned how to control my behavior. It took time, but I did it,” Isaac recalls. His dedication to self-improvement helped him build the professionalism needed to succeed in a workplace environment. 

After continuing to work on his personal development, Isaac expressed interest and began janitorial training through a Paid Internship Program. “I was hired for three days a week, four hours a day,” he shares. His progress during this time did not go unnoticed. When Isaac moved to Santa Clarita this year, he needed a new employment opportunity that was close by. His growth led to an incredible new opportunity—TASC offered him a job at The Sanctuary, a non-profit farm animal rescue that TASC clients and staff helped build, and now help maintain though our work programs, therapy programs, and volunteerism. 

Now a full-time employee, Isaac’s role at The Sanctuary is varied and keeps him engaged. “I maintain the property, take care of the garden, feed the horses, and help organize events,” he says. “I love working hard. I have to show that I have perfect work ethics. There’s always room for improvement, but I’m learning as I go.” 

Isaac credits his success to the support he received from his TASC coaches and Clinical Director Kelly Grimes.

“They taught me how to be responsible on the job, stay on task, and make sure I get to work on time. I was learning from professionals,” he says. This foundation has allowed him to take on more responsibilities, including setting up events and helping as an event organizer. With the guidance of his job coaches, Isaac has been able to increase his hours and responsibilities, now working full-time. “TASC is helping me meet my goals,” Isaac shares. “I wanted to work with my hands, and I am.” 

Isaac’s advice to other clients thinking about entering the workforce is simple yet profound: “Don’t worry about what others think about you. What matters is how well your supervisor and bosses think you’re doing. Focus on your behavior and just stay in the zone.” 

Outside of work, Isaac enjoys spending time with his family and has big plans for Halloween decorations with his dad. “My parents are really happy with how far I’ve come,” he reflects. 

Isaac’s journey from client to full-time employee at TASC serves as a powerful testament to the potential of individuals with developmental disabilities when given the right support and opportunities. TASC’s commitment to empowering clients like Isaac to succeed in the workforce is at the core of our mission, and we’re incredibly proud to have him as part of our team. 

Mental Health Classes Culmination

We are excited to celebrate the recent graduation of clients from TASC’s Antelope Valley location, who completed a comprehensive mental health educational series. In collaboration with the LA County Department of Mental Health, this program offered vital insights into promoting mental and emotional well-being.

The series covered a broad range of critical topics, starting with Family Violence and Child Abuse Prevention and building resilience in those affected by such experiences. Suicide Prevention, Anxiety, Depression, Learning Disabilities, and Autism were explored to help participants better understand their own mental health challenges and those of their peers. Clients also learned strategies for handling behavioral struggles in children, managing stress, and addressing bullying.



The classes culminated in sessions focused on breaking the stigma around mental health, and fostering recovery from anxiety, depression, and addiction. Clients left with tools to support their mental wellness and build resilience in the face of life's challenges.

This program has been an empowering journey for our clients, enhancing their ability to take control of their mental health. We look forward to continuing to support them on their paths to recovery and well-being.

National Disability Employment

Awareness Month

October is a special month for raising awareness and promoting inclusion, particularly for individuals with developmental disabilities. This year, the theme for National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is “Access to Good Jobs for All,” reflecting the critical role that meaningful employment plays in transforming lives.

At TASC, we know that good jobs are more than just a paycheck—they offer a sense of purpose, independence, and community. Employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities are central to our mission, and NDEAM is an important time to reflect on how far we’ve come and what still needs to be done to ensure everyone has access to meaningful work.

Nationwide, people with disabilities often face higher barriers to employment than their peers. Yet, as this year's NDEAM theme emphasizes, access to good jobs should be universal, regardless of one's abilities. Employers have the opportunity to open their doors wider by offering inclusive work environments that value the skills and talents that individuals with developmental disabilities bring to the table. Whether through customized employment plans or workplace accommodations, inclusion helps businesses tap into a broader talent pool, creating a more innovative and productive workforce.

At TASC, we take pride in our job-training and employment programs, which are designed to provide real-world work experiences that help our clients build the skills they need to thrive. This year, as we recognize NDEAM’s call to action, let’s recommit to ensuring that access to good jobs is truly for everyone.

To learn more about this year’s NDEAM campaign and how you can promote inclusive employment practices, visit www.dol.gov/agencies/odep/initiatives/ndeam. Join us in celebrating the contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities not just this October, but year-round, as we work toward a more inclusive future for all.

Upcoming Events

October 16

6:30PM-8PM

Parents of Adult Consumers

Connect and share resources, the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Email victoria.berrey@csun.edu for details on how to connect.

October 19

11:00AM-2PM

All Abilities Resource Fair

Come together and access a wealth of disability resources and professional services.

Location: CSUN - University Student Union

October 21 (monthly)

6:30PM-8PM

Filipino Support Group

Meet other Filipino families and share your experiences! Contact theresa.quary@csun.edu for details on how to participate, no later than 4pm on the day of the meeting.