Throughout New Jersey and Delaware, Allies staff members are working tirelessly to serve those we support.
Each month, Allies will recognize one person who has been nominated by their supervisor and/or colleagues. Please join us in recognizing the folks who make the amazing work we do possible.
This month, we are recognizing Monet Cephas, Employment Specialist!
How long have you been with Allies?
This June will be 9 months. Before coming to Allies, I worked in this field in day habilitation, individual supports, and group home work. In total, I have been in the field for 15-20 years.
Why did you choose to pursue a career in this field?
I chose to pursue this because I wanted change what I was doing while staying in this field. I have previously worked in day habilitation programs and group homes, and I wanted to pursue another avenue to enrich people’s lives. I wanted to try it out and see how I could help.
What is your favorite part of your role?
My favorite part is when I have successfully landed somebody employment. When I first started, it was such a daunting task, so when I found my first participant a position, I felt ecstatic.
Where do you look for, or find, inspiration?
My inspiration comes when I see participants getting exciting about searching for and finding jobs. Their enthusiasm to find work is very inspirational to me.
Is there anyone, who is part of the organization that you look up to? Why?
I would say my supervisor Allison Donnelly. The stories she tells, and how she manages things inspires me because it seems like she does an amazing job. I can see myself moving into a role like hers in the future.
How do you think your role has helped to shape the lives of those you serve?
I feel like my role helps folks to realize that they can find and maintain paid employment. It seems like a lot of folks get discouraged by their previous rejection for employment, that they underestimate themselves and what their abilities can do.
Where do you think you have the biggest impact in your role?
I would say my biggest impact is landing the employment and having my participants successfully go through the interview process to get the job. The interview process can be nerve-wracking for everyone, so when they are successful, that is huge.
Can you tell me about a professional experience or accomplishment you are proud of?
When I started this role, I had only worked on my own resumes. Gaining experience in helping our participants to write their own successful resumes was a huge accomplishment for me.
Please describe one of your fondest memories working with Allies.
Working with one of my individuals during the holiday time, she was so thankful that she wrote me a card detailing all of the reasons she appreciated me. That was a very nice moment.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I am a good singer, I get that a lot when I am singing karaoke.
If you could choose any super power, which would you pick?
I would choose to be invisible because I want to see what is going on. I would love to be a fly on the wall.
Do you have anything else you would like to share? Anyone you would like to shout-out?
My time at Allies so far has been great. I am so grateful that I picked this organization when I was conducting my job search. I want to shout out the supported employment team. I want to shout out Luke Washack, Allison Donnelly, and the entire supported employment team.
From Allison Donnelly, Employment Services Supervisor:
Monet has really gone above and beyond for the department. She has made it a point to step in and assist, even in areas and regions she was not directly hired for. Monet has also handled some exceptionally difficult cases beautifully and professionally.
Monet has an upbeat personality and a positive attitude, she is just an all-around pleasure to work with.
Thank you for everything you do, Monet!