When Troy first met Lanakila Pacific’s Employment Services team at Campbell High School, he wasn’t sure what to expect. That visit sparked a connection that would lead to job training, career support, and a future filled with opportunity.
Through the Employment Services program, Troy gained hands-on training and important soft skills like communication, collaboration, and digital literacy. These skills helped him take the next step: joining Lanakila Pacific’s Grounds Services team through SourceAmerica’s AbilityOne Program.
The AbilityOne Program is a federal initiative that connects individuals who have significant disabilities with job opportunities through government contracts. It’s one of the largest sources of employment for people with disabilities in the U.S.—and for Troy, it opened the door to a job he loves—landscaping at Tripler Army Medical Center. “I love to cut grass,” he says with a smile.
Troy’s dedicated job coaches helped him feel confident and prepared for his role in grounds maintenance. Their daily check-ins offer encouragement, answer questions, and help Troy and his coworkers stay on track. “It feels good knowing I have people around me I can count on,” Troy said.
One of those people is Marshall, a best friend who also came through Employment Services and now works alongside Troy at Tripler. “It’s fun,” Troy shares. “It’s not hard going to work every day because I have friends. The people I work with here are like family.”
Today, Troy is thriving both personally and professionally. He’s proud of the work he does and the path he’s taken to get there. “Employment Services and Grounds Services helped me become independent and live a meaningful life,” he said. Reflecting on his experience, Troy hopes others will follow a similar path. “Don’t lose hope,” he shares. “Lanakila Pacific will guide you through the process.”
To learn more about Lanakila Pacific’s Employment Services and how it supports career opportunities for individuals with disabilities, visit lanakilapacific.org/employmentservices/.