🌟 STAFF SPOTLIGHT: 13 Years of Empowering Independence! 🌟
At the Center for Independent Living Jacksonville, we love celebrating the people behind our mission—and today, we’re bragging on one of our incredible Community Work Incentives Coordinators (CWICs)!
For more than 13 years, she has helped individuals with disabilities understand how employment may affect their Social Security benefits, health insurance, and other public benefits. Through accurate information, benefits counseling, and ongoing support, she helps consumers make informed choices about employment and their journey toward greater financial independence.
It can mean a second chance at financial independence!
It can mean feeling productive and accomplished again!
It can mean rebuilding confidence!
Brag Spot: Get to Know Our Team!
Toccara James — Community Work Incentives Coordinator (CWIC)
1. What is your role, and what do you enjoy most about it? I help individuals with disabilities understand how employment may affect their Social Security benefits, health insurance, and other public benefits. What I enjoy most is seeing someone gain confidence when they realize that employment is possible and that they have options and support available to them.
2. What inspired you to work in the disability and independent living field? I have always wanted to be a social worker or a teacher. I found this job on Craigslist believe it or not! I applied and was offered the position. Before coming to CIL, I didn't know much about people with disabilities. This role was supposed to be a stepping stone—13 years later, I'm still here because I absolutely love what I do.
3. What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at CIL? The relationships I've built with consumers and the agencies we collaborate with. I'm especially proud when I can help someone overcome the fear of losing their benefits and realize employment and independence are possible. Knowing I helped them take that next step is incredibly rewarding.
4. What advice would you give someone interested in making a difference in their community? Listen, build relationships, and remember you don't have to do everything alone. Collaboration is key—there are so many resources and people who can help. Treat every person with dignity, respect, and patience. You can be the one person who changes someone's life...let it be for the better.
5. Can you share a success story or memorable experience with a consumer? For over 13 years, I've seen so many success stories. When a client returns to work after becoming disabled, it's about so much more than a paycheck. Many lose their health, job, savings, home, vehicle, and even their sense of self while waiting for disability benefits. Returning to work is a second chance at financial independence, confidence, and a reminder that there is still a path forward.
Thank you, Toccara, for your dedication and the difference you make every day!
— CIL Jacksonville, Center for Independent Living www.ciljacksonville.org
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