Opportunity Services highlights client success!

22 year-old Forest Lake native Sam Kohs has been working with Opportunity Services for several years. Sam is a recent graduate of the Project Search program at Medtronic, where he worked cleaning up materials in the warehouse. Following his graduation, Sam wanted to find a “real-world” job and turned to Opportunity Services for assistance! Currently Sam is a part-time dishwasher at Paleos Restaurant in Lino Lakes, with on-the-job support from Opportunity Services Employment Specialist, Brett Olds. Sam also helps out at his dad’s business, Tire Warehouse in Forest Lake.

Paleos Restaurant is locally owned by John and Elizabeth Pavlick, a husband and wife team. “Sam does a great job for us here at Paleos,” remarked Elizabeth Pavlick. “He is very sweet and joyful on the job.” Paleos Restaurant opened last October and specifically caters to the Paleo lifestyle- meaning the food they prepare is gluten, dairy and sugar-free. Sam was hired on the spot during his first interview at Paleos- something he takes great pride in! He was actually among the first group of employees hired, so Sam had the opportunity to see this restaurant grow from the beginning. Sam’s smile is infectious to the entire restaurant and anyone who meets him. He truly enjoys his job because it keeps him busy and he gets the opportunity to meet new people. Sam is an avid Wild Hockey fan, so naturally his nickname on the job is “Nordy.”

This coming fall, Sam is heading to Bethel University to participate in the BUILD Program: Bethel University Inclusive Learning and Development. The BUILD Program is a two-year commitment for adults with disabilities, where students earn a certificate as well as building life skills. Sam is extremely excited to go to college at Bethel. Congratulations on your success, Sam!

To learn more about Opportunity Services, please visit www.OppServ.org