Ken Garza began a career in radio right out of high school. After working at a few small-market stations, he got a break and landed a job at a rock 'n roll station in Houston. His on-air shift ran from midnight to 6 a.m. In addition the grueling graveyard shift, Garza handled the station's public affairs and promotions.

"After a year," said Garza, " I was completely burned out." The heavy workload and sleepless nights took their toll on him. Five years later Ken took a "9-5" position as a customer service representative with Data Card Corporation. He stayed at Data Card Corporation for 22 years until he was laid-off when the division he worked in was sold.

"I was not terribly concerned at first. I knew I would be bringing a tremendous amount of customer service experience to whatever company wanted to hire me," said Garza. However, after searching for a while, he realized finding full-time employment would be more of a challenge than he thought.

Garza, who has cerebral palsy, went to the Texas Rehabilitation Commission for vocational assistance. It was there he was introduced to the Career and Recovery Resources' (CRR), Projects with Industry program. Staff member Joanne Long was assigned to assist Garza to find a full-time position that suited him.

Even with Ms. Long's help it took a while. Garza became increasingly discouraged with his unsuccessful job search. "I had many responsibilities to meet and a family to provide for," Garza said. Adding, "I didn't blame others for my unemployment, but I was anxious and discouraged."

Fortunately, Garza found Long to be a steadying force during that time. They put together an attractive resume, enrolled him in advanced computer courses, and practiced mock interviews. Garza also utilized the CRR's job bank. And though he followed every lead he was given, he was running into dead ends.

Garza knew he was going to have to "rethink" his action plan. Nine months after being laid off Garza made a change. "I decided to reenter the radio industry," he quipped.

Garza called a local news radio station, secured an interview and was hired part-time. During the next few months, he worked very hard and never complained. Garza showed up on time and helped where he could. A short while later the station brought him on full-time as public affairs director and an on-air personality from 3-7 p.m.