Read below, from the Director of the Transition and Vocational Program at Clare Woods Academy, about the power of community partnerships. We are incredibly grateful for all the support from our neighbors at CWA, and look forward to continuing to grow this amazing relationship.
“As the Director of the Transition and Vocational Program at Clare Woods Academy, I have the privilege of seeing firsthand how meaningful community partnerships can shape our students’ futures. One partnership that has made a significant impact on our program—and on students like Eian—is our collaboration with DuPagePads.
The Clare Woods Academy Transition and Vocational Program is designed to prepare students for life beyond high school by providing structured, real-world work experiences. Our students develop essential life skills, vocational skills, job exploration experience, and self-advocacy skills through a combination of on-campus and community-based employment opportunities. These experiences are intentional and goal-driven, helping students build confidence, independence, and readiness for competitive employment.
Eian has been an active participant in our program for the past two years and has consistently demonstrated growth, commitment, and a strong interest in retail work. Through our partnership with DuPagePads, Eian works every Monday in the Pads clothing closet located on our campus. This opportunity allows him to contribute to a meaningful community mission while gaining hands-on experience that directly aligns with his career goals.
Working alongside DuPagePads volunteers Joan and Patricia, Eian completes a variety of responsibilities that mirror tasks found in a retail environment. He sorts donated clothing, removes damaged items, organizes garments by hanging and folding them in designated areas, and assists in preparing clothing orders for Pads clients. He also helps label and organize bags and supports the volunteers with delivery preparation. Through this role, Eian is building skills in organization, attention to detail, following multi-step directions, time management, teamwork, and customer-focused service.
What makes this partnership especially meaningful is the supportive and respectful environment created by the DuPagePads volunteers. Joan and Patricia provide patient guidance and encouragement, allowing Eian to learn, practice, and grow in a comfortable setting. This experience serves as an important first step toward Eian’s long-term goal of working as a sales or store associate in a clothing store, an area that aligns well with his interest in fashion.
Partnerships like the one between Clare Woods Academy and DuPagePads are essential to the success of our students. They allow young adults to gain practical skills while feeling valued as contributing members of their community. We are grateful for this collaboration and look forward to continuing to grow our relationship with DuPagePads as we support students like Eian in preparing for their futures.”
-Kristina Martinez, Director of the Transitional and Vocational Program at Clare Woods Academy
