Lamentably, I am leaving my second home. Yes, I mean it! Ability Counts, Inc. has been my second home for 5 years. I remember when I met with Claudette on my first day (June 24, 2013) and she introduced me to Veronica Zepeda and the rest of the team (Debbie, Sandra, and Tiana).

That day was a triple culture shock for me: new to America, new to American workforce, and, most importantly, new to people with developmental disabilities.

However, three months later, I fell in love with the population and the rest of the team! I am saying this genuinely, this population changed my life. They taught me that life is not just about driving a nice car, living in a luxury home, or earning a fat paycheck, but to do something that is greater than who I am. For that, I am so grateful!

I learned so much from almost everyone, knowledge and skills that shaped professional careers that I will take with me everywhere I go. I will always be grateful to people like Claudette, Victor Sr., Leticia Gutierrez, Mo Gaji, and Ability Counts, Inc. as a whole.

It also was a privilege for me to work with the SEP Case Managers and employees such as Tiana, Lorrie, Sarah, Brenda, Judith, Diane, Blake, Julian, Gema, etc. Also, it was my honor to directly team up with the WAP coaches: Veronica, Rosie, Karina, Ingrid, Yvette, Wade, Yolanda, and Maricela to serve more than 200 hardworking people with developmental disabilities.

All of you are very valuable to Ability Counts, Inc. I hope you continue knowing how much of an influence you have on these people’s lives and how valuable you are to the success of the company.

-Ernst Guillaume