Jared Woosley helps change community perceptions about intellectual disabilities.
Name: Jared Woosley
Profession: Director of Special Programs at One Step Beyond, a non-profit organization that provides educational, vocational, recreation and performing arts programs for adults (18+) who have intellectual disabilities
Age: 43
What do you do for a living?
I’m a musician and hockey player who uses my skills to advocate for and change community perceptions about individuals who have intellectual disabilities. I provide love, care, and opportunity to participants so they can turn their dreams into reality. I have the best job ever!
What type of training do you need to do your job?
You must have a huge heart and love people. You also need to be a good friend and be able to stand up for others who can’t stand up for themselves.
What’s your favorite part of your job? I get to create opportunities and share my love of hockey and music with people who wouldn’t otherwise be able to skate and play music. If someone I work with has a dream to try something, I make it happen.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A musician, hockey player, and world traveler.
What advice would you give to a kid who wants to have a similar career? Keep doing what you love, and you will find a way to make a career out of it.
One fun fact NOT about your job? History is my favorite subject.
