A 54-year-old Latino male living with the HIV virus - due to a long history of drug abuse - began the Latino Employment Connection (LEC) program in December 2003. He was referred to the program by the Department of Rehabilitation.

During meetings with the LEC Job Developer at Proyecto Visión partner organization the Westside Center for Independent Living (WCIL), the consumer developed job-seeking and presentation skills, learned interviewing techniques, and practiced mock interviews to help his job search.

His original vocational goal was to obtain a warehouse position. Many warehouse jobs require heavy lifting and long hours. Unfortunately the consumer's health was not compatible with these requirements. While the consumer did obtain one job as a warehouse worker, the job was temporary, lasting only a couple of months. Many warehouse jobs are temporary assignments that are assigned exclusively through temporary agencies.

After several meetings and lengthy discussions, the LEC Job Developer learned that the consumer had a hidden talent and hobby - refinishing furniture. He takes on small projects refinishing furniture and making kitchen cabinets for friends and family. For the consumer, refinishing furniture had always been a form of "therapy," as well as something he enjoyed.

After many months of searching for warehouse positions, the LEC Job Developer and consumer decided to look into businesses where cabinet-makers and/or furniture refinishers were needed. It didn't take long before a company took interest in his talent and gave him the opportunity. After more than 18 months in the position, he continues to be successfully employed.