- Rachel (Rach) is celebrating 20 years working at Castle after first joining as a participant looking for support to find employment.
- Starting with just a few hours a week cleaning the Toronto office, Rach now works across both Toronto and Belmont offices five mornings a week.
Rach (centre) alongside Cath (L) and Karen (R) at Castle's Belmont office.
This week, Rachel is celebrating 20 years working at Castle, a milestone we're all incredibly proud of.
“20 years is a big achievement for me. I’m very happy I’m still working and everything. And I’m proud of myself for doing it,” Rachel says.
Rachel, or Rach, as she’s known around the office, first came to Castle as a participant. Living with a learning disability, she was looking for support to find a job and build some independence.
After leaving school at 16, she tried TAFE and other study options but realised it wasn’t for her. What she really wanted was the chance to work.
At 19, that opportunity came up when a cleaning role became available at Castle’s Toronto office. Rachel applied and got the job, starting with just a few hours one day a week.
Twenty years later, Rachel now works five mornings a week across both the Toronto and Belmont offices.
For Rachel, having a job has always meant more than just earning money. While she receives the Disability Support Pension, working has given her independence and the chance to enjoy things she might not otherwise have been able to.
“I can go on holidays if I want to, and it’s helped pay for my car”
Work has also helped Rachel grow in confidence. Although she still describes herself as a little shy at first, she enjoys chatting with colleagues once she gets to know them, especially about her nieces and nephew, who she loves being an aunty to.
In addition to reaching the incredible milestone, one of the achievements Rachel is most proud of is getting her driver’s licence after four attempts at her L’s test, something she says taught her not to give up.
Rachel credits the supportive people she’s worked with over the years for helping her keep going. Team members encouraged her to take on extra work at the Belmont office, which at first she wasn’t sure she could do it, but with their encouragement, and the support of her family, she gave it a go.
When asked if she’s enjoyed her career at Castle, Rachel’s answer is simple.
“Yeah, I have. It’s because of the great people I’ve worked with.”
Rachel’s milestone was recently celebrated with a morning tea by the Belmont and Toronto teams.
Her message to Castle after 20 years is heartfelt:
“Just a really big thank you for all the support you’ve shown me all the time.”
Congratulations, Rach, on an incredible 20 years.
