Craig Blake used to manage a Jiffy Lube service center until a major health event took a toll on his cognitive abilities.
He came to ProAct’s Adult Day Services program, and now, thanks to an unconventional Employment Exploration class, he’s working again.
A nearly 20-year Eagan floral business operating from a home welcomed Blake to pitch in. He does, gathering plant matter for disposal, vacuuming, dusting and freshening up the production center.
The owner often returns from deliveries to find a clean shop. “I come here and I am so happy. It makes my day,” said Gayle Kenow.
ProAct classroom instructor and direct service professional Cyerra Hanson helped with Blake’s job tryout. After visiting several employers, Blake found he liked Design n Bloom the best, and would need assistance from a job coach. “He’s such an active guy and wants to be very busy,” said Hanson. “And, it’s such an active place, so there was a good fit.”