It all started with chairs. By YSC Director of Training, Darlene Schubert

Darlene Schubert, Director of Training takes a moment to sit and reflect on her experience at Yes She Can

Individuals walking past Girl AGain, on Church Street may notice a NEW sign. This sign represents significant growth and progress for our organization since we moved to our new location.  It all started with chairs. When my colleague Michelle and I began at Yes She Can within weeks of each other, we had many collaborative moments where we hoped to create and put together our new space. The first thing that felt important to change was the chairs in our training area. With time, we were able raise the money necessary to purchase new, comfortable, sturdy, orange chairs! That was our first symbol of growth.

Within the past year, we received a three-year grant to support our mission of developing a mentorship program for individuals with autism to grow their skill set for those seeking employment. We have partnered with another non-profit to sell merchandise at a second store location in another county. For the Fall 2024 semester, we will officially have the most trainees participating in our training program in our organization’s history.

When I look at our store sign, I can’t help but think of my passionate team, whom I am honored to call my colleagues
(mis compañeras), Robin, Claudia, and Michelle. Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment to drive our mission to serve individuals with disabilities. Our incredible volunteers from diverse backgrounds and talents offer invaluable learning opportunities to our program participants. You are all true examples of what altruism and selflessness look like. We could not provide the same support and opportunities without you all. Thank you.

I am thankful for the families we work with and their belief in our work. I am also very thankful for their support by being open to our feedback and navigating things at home to support a more comprehensive approach to developing skills for our trainees. To our donors, thank you for always supporting us in our efforts to develop and expand our organization.

I am most grateful to those we serve; it is an honor to meet and work with every single individual who walks through our doors. My greatest accomplishment in my career thus far is witnessing the development of skills, knowledge, and confidence in the trainees at Yes She Can. The most invaluable experience has been the continuous kindness, joy, and empathy I experience from working with the trainees.

I’m genuinely learning what support and empathy look like in a workplace. I have the best coworkers in the world. If everyone could truly learn and work with someone with autism and witness genuine kindness and dedication, the world would be better.

The tangible growth started with chairs in our store, which led to a sign on the front. These items, while only objects reflect the faces of those who continue to support us, the individuals we support, and the individuals we hope to support in the future. We will continue to be community advocates and movers to continue the conversation about inclusion, equity, and employment opportunities. We look forward to continuing to grow and serve the autism community.