Candy

Candalaria, also known as Candy, is a community and business-oriented person. For the past three years with Community Integrated Work Program, she has focused on building her micro business and honing her job skills. The day program provides real-life experience with working and educates her on how to expand her business.

Being a part of a community also means volunteering and working in the community. From Monday to Friday, Candy follows a set schedule that helps her compartmentalize, plan, and focus on tasks.

On Mondays, Candy works at a restaurant, California Burrito, and provides janitorial services. She enjoys working on Mondays because she has fun with other clients who are a part of the same day program.

On Tuesdays, Candy enjoys volunteering at River City Food Bank at St. Matthew’s. She can see first-hand how much positive impact she has on her community. Candy’s ability to volunteer makes her feel grateful and happy.

From Wednesday through Friday, Candy focuses on her micro business. She will use this time to prepare different types of products including graphic T-shirts and makeup bags. Candy also knows when she needs to restock supplies and plans accordingly. She has sold her products at multiple events, including the Microenterprise Fair hosted by Alta California Regional Center.

As Candy continues to build up her independence, she learns news skills that will eventually assist her with living on her own. She is learning how to cook and maintain a home, along with budgeting and paying bills. In the meantime, Candy loves spending time with her family.

Candy feels she has grown a lot as a person within the last few years and feels grateful for her Service Coordinator and the services and support received. As Candy continues to progress, she hopes to inspire her friends at the day program to achieve their goals and try new things.