As Ben King approached high school graduation, he was anxious about finding work. His guidance counselor at the time gave him information on Didlake and the services and career opportunities the nonprofit provides.
Upon graduation, Ben took a position on Didlake’s AbilityOne Program contract for the National Guard, processing and delivering mail. He learned everything there is to know about this job and enjoyed the opportunity to do meaningful work and interact with customers. It wasn’t long before he was established as a professional with valued experience. From the National Guard, Ben went on to work on AbilityOne contracts for several government agencies, such as the Department of Energy.
After more than a decade of public service with Didlake, Ben’s family relocated to St. Petersburg, Florida. The move was difficult for Ben. He found himself facing new challenges. Transitioning to a new state and trying to navigate a new system of support was proving difficult. “[Florida] had resources, but the resources weren’t like Didlake at all,” Ben explained. Ben began applying for customer service roles at large chain organizations but had little success in getting his resume noticed.
Ben was missing home and the community of support he left behind in Virginia. Without consistent work, he found himself in a difficult headspace. Living a well-rounded life required a work setting where he felt he was using his skills and contributing to a team. After making the tough decision to move back to Virginia, Ben called Didlake and asked to rejoin the mailroom.
Didlake welcomed Ben back and matched him with a position as a shipper packer on a contract with the Peace Corps’ Post Logistics & Support Division. Ben fell right back into place as a valued, experienced team member. Didlake continues to provide Ben with the support and tools he needs to navigate his career journey. Using the skills he acquired on the National Guard project, Ben was able to move between the shipping department and the mailroom. Taking on a new role has taught Ben the importance of patience, teamwork, and relying on supervisors and colleagues for help. As Ben would say, “If you need help, ask for it.” Didlake’s staff has always been a resource to Ben and other employees seeking to do their best. "Maybe you can’t type a certain way,” Ben explained, “but they will help you figure it out.”
The support Didlake has provided Ben extends beyond his career journey. Because of his steady employment, Ben has been able to set down roots in Virginia. His colleagues helped guide him through the home-buying process and continue providing advice and support as he tackles the many challenges of first-time home ownership.
Since transitioning from high school to the workforce, Ben has found a constant source of support, encouragement and opportunity in Didlake. Because of Didlake, Ben got to come home to Virginia to a job he excels at and a community where he’s valued.
