By Shannon Laird, ILS Facilitator
Meet Erik: A Journey of Growth and Determination
I would love to introduce you to our amazing new client, Erik. He started with Compass in May and had never heard of ILS until his case manager mentioned it. During our first assessment, he was shy and soft-spoken, unsure if this was something he wanted to pursue. But as we talked about the skills he could learn, his face lit up.
Finding Purpose at Home
Erik lives with his father and brother. His father, now elderly and slowing down, can no longer do all the things he once did. Out of deep love and respect for his dad, Erik decided to learn as many new skills as possible to take on more responsibility around the house.
Learning Life Skills and Gaining Confidence
Since joining ILS, Erik has flourished. Once unsure, he’s now cooking pasta, doing laundry, grocery shopping, and even paying the bills—with the help of his ILC. His confidence has grown alongside his independence, and he’s proving what determination can do.
A Step Toward His Career Dream
Erik is also involved in a job development program and hopes to find a career he enjoys. He previously completed a paid internship at Embassy Suites, where he discovered his love for hospitality. His dream is to work in a hotel—and he’s well on his way.
Basketball: His Lifelong Passion
When he’s not learning new skills, Erik is immersed in basketball. He’s a die-hard Oklahoma City Thunder fan, and his favorite player is Victor Wembanyama. Whether watching games, analyzing stats, or playing with friends, basketball gives Erik both comfort and inspiration. He even collects trading cards—his favorite is a signed Jalen Williams card!
A Love for K-Pop and Global Connection
Another side of Erik’s personality shines through his love for K-pop, especially the band Triple S. He appreciates the artistry, energy, and connection this global phenomenon brings. His dream is to one day attend a live K-pop concert—an experience that would combine his love for music, culture, and community.