Supported Employment
A New Job, Built by Community
March 16, 2026
Robert Bottano at Timber Country Coca-Cola
When Work Changes Overnight
We all understand just how much work shapes our routine, our confidence, and our sense of stability. Last summer, a long-time business partner of Living Opportunities closed unexpectedly, leaving Robert Bottano without work.
Robert, like most of us, relies on steady income and a daily routine to keep life on track. When his job ended, he felt discouraged and worried about what would come next. Robert calls that time his “dark July."
Robert’s team at Living Opportunities stepped in right away and assured him that, with support from his community, they could make it a “bright August.” Job developer Blaine Lindsey met with Robert to talk through his strengths, update his resume, and start the job search.
“We searched for work online and applied in person,” Blaine said. “As anyone who has looked for work knows, finding the right fit can take time, so I realized that we needed a creative solution.”
A Bridge Back to the Workplace
That solution came from the community. Robert and Blaine visited Southern Oregon Goodwill, another long-time partner of Living Opportunities, to learn more about the GoodWorks program. GoodWorks is an eight-week, paid internship that provides workforce training, coaching, and hands-on experience in a Goodwill store. With support from Living Opportunities, Robert joined the program.
Throughout his internship, Robert’s job coaches at both Goodwill and Living Opportunities saw steady growth. Robert built new connections, strengthened his skills, and earned a paycheck, while his team continued working to develop a long-term job opportunity.
The Right Match With the Right Support
That opportunity came from a new partner: Timber Country Coca-Cola. As a job developer, Blaine builds relationships with local employers and helps match job seekers with the right roles. When he met warehouse General Manager Brian Stancliff, they talked through the needs of the warehouse team and Robert’s strengths, then mapped out training and support.
For Brian, the collaboration stood out: “Blaine was a pleasure to work with in finding an employee who fit our needs. Robert immediately became part of our team. He’s extremely friendly, willing to do what it takes to get the job done, and a great addition to our warehouse staff.”
As things settled into a steady routine, Blaine moved on to supporting others seeking employment.
“It’s common for job developers to lose touch with job seekers once the hiring process is finalized,” Blaine said. “So when I heard a knock on the office door a few months later, I was delighted when the receptionist handed me a sticky note Robert had personally dropped off.”
The note read: “Blaine, thank you for this job at Coca-Cola.”
In response, Blaine commented: “It was a humbly sent sentiment from a very kind community member. We wish Robert all the best in his new job!”
Build Your Team Through Inclusive Employment
Inclusive employment is about belonging, dignity, and empowerment. It is also built on trust: trust in a person’s strengths, trust between employers and community partners, and trust that the right support can lead to lasting success. Robert’s story shows what is possible when a community decides that everyone deserves the chance to work, contribute, and be part of a team.
Local businesses play a vital role in building a strong community. Living Opportunities partners with employers to identify roles, provide training support, and ensure a successful match for both the employee and the business. Click here to learn more.
If you are interested in learning how inclusive employment can strengthen your team, please contact our Job Developer Blaine Lindsey to start the conversation.
Get in Touch
Blaine Lindsey
Business & Donor Relations
blaine.lindsey@livingopps.org