Success Story: Ruth Lussier
When Ruth Lussier started at the Taunton Resource Center’s Computer Lab a year ago, she had no idea that she would be typing 32 words per minute and navigating the internet by herself now. Ruth graduated from Taunton High School in 1994, but never learned to type or use computers. She has been working evenings at a local grocery store for six years, bagging groceries. She likes working and is dependable and reliable. However, Ruth would prefer to work during the day, so she can socialize more with her friends in the evening. A friend of hers is a karaoke singer, and Ruth really enjoys going to listen and the company of other people. Her favorites music styles are “county, rock and roll, and a little rap”.
Ruth decided to join the Arc of Northern Bristol County to take advantage of our recreational and education programs. She enrolled in classes at the Arc’s Taunton Resource Center. Instructor Rick Slack noticed that Ruth had lots of unfulfilled potential. He got her the Mavis Beacon Typing software program. Immediately, Ruth was up to the challenge. She practiced over and over, beating her previous records each week. Little by little, her speed and accuracy climbed. Now, she is shooting for 40 words per minute by the time this newsletter goes to print.
In addition, Ruth also enjoys “surfing the internet.” She has developed a resume and a list of references, and is a dependable, hard-working young woman. Ruth also likes to cook. Her favorite recipe is spaghetti. Sewing is another favorite activity of hers. Of course, like most young women, she also likes shopping for clothes.
Ruth is hoping that by developing her skills and confidence that she will have opportunities for a day job involving tasks that challenge her and allow her to use her talents, either at her current job-site or another. Ruth is already succeeding at building her self-confidence, as she masters the challenges that she sets for herself. Congratulations, Ruth! We know you will be successful achieving your goals and realizing your dreams!
