Jimmy Witwer is a functioning member of our community. He has a job he gets paid for, and he contributes to the local economy.

But that is just a part of Jimmy's story.

"It's going good," said Jimmy. "I've been here six years so far. It's a lot of working, but I'm used to it. It's not easy. Yeah, I think I'm good at it."

Jimmy works at Signature Custom Cabinetry in Ephrata. He landed his job through the working relationship between the company and Lighthouse Vocational Services, which is located at 144 Orlan Road, New Holland.

Lighthouse Vocational Services provides employment opportunities for local individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and Jimmy is one of two individuals Lighthouse has placed at Signature. For Jimmy, his job has also given him value and purpose.

Andon Rangelov is employed by Lighthouse Vocational Services as a job coach, and he oversees and supports Jimmy's work a couple of times each week.

"Oh yeah, (Jimmy's) very helpful," said Rangelov. "He will do whatever he is asked to do. He has been here a long time; he doesn't need too much direction. Every now and then I give him guidance."

Jimmy's duties at Signature Custom Cabinetry are janitorial in nature. He sweeps floors, picks up wood and disposes of it in the proper containers, and recycles items like cardboard.

Jimmy represents himself, and what Lighthouse Vocational Services is all about, very well.

"Jimmy is a good problem-solver," said Rangelov. "He can navigate his way around. He does enjoy talking to people. He gets very excited when he communicates with people. He's very friendly. He's a gentleman. He's going to offer to carry things for you. He's not shy about offering help."

"If (other employees) need help, I'll help them," said Jimmy, a 36-year-old resident of Ephrata. "(Rangelov) is my coach. He makes sure I do my job. He teaches me to do things. Now that I know him, he's part of my life."

Jimmy has learned and grown during his time at Signature Custom Cabinetry. There are also social components and experience factors involved with his work.

"He's learned discipline, being on time and consistency," said Rangelov of Jimmy. "He likes interacting with people. He prioritizes, and he's improved his decision making. He just likes to be in the community."

Lighthouse offers a wide range of vocational services, including training, transitional programs, educational enrichment and volunteer opportunities. Rangelov is one of six job coaches employed by Lighthouse Vocational Services.

"We work with high-functioning people," said Rangelov. "When they do well, it's easier for me. When you come to Lighthouse, you've got to apply for spots. Depending on their abilities, they could work at Lighthouse, in the community or they could just volunteer. I think in general, social services are not valued as much. They aren't often appreciated."

For additional information, go to http://www.lighthousevoc.org.