Love What You Do: Finding Purpose and Confidence Through Work

When Diane decided she wanted to return to work, she wasn’t sure where to begin—but she knew one thing for certain: she wanted to do work that mattered. As a naturally caring and highly sensitive person, helping others had always been close to her heart. Nursing felt less like a job and more like a calling.

With encouragement from her Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) counselor, Diane learned about the Ticket to Work program and realized she didn’t have to navigate her path alone. She found a team that believed in her and helped her build the skills, communication strategies, and confidence she needed to move forward.

Diane completed her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training through CWI’s medical assistant program and took on a demanding four-week, full-time internship at St. Luke’s. The experience was intense, but it confirmed something important—this was work she loved. Even when it was challenging, it felt right.

After taking time off, Diane was referred to LINC’s Ticket to Work program, where she partnered with Kelli to prepare for a successful return to work. Together, they focused on requesting reasonable accommodations, making sure Diane had the support she needed to do her best work.

Now, a year and a half later, Diane has rebuilt her confidence and independence. She takes pride in her skills—checking vitals, connecting with patients, and offering comfort when it’s needed most. While she’s still working toward reducing her reliance on benefits, she’s already experiencing the rewards of meaningful employment and growing financial stability.

Diane’s journey shows what’s possible when you love what you do. By asking for help, honoring her limits, and staying committed to her goals, she turned passion into purpose. With the right support and determination, work can be more than a paycheck—it can be a source of confidence, fulfillment, and strength.

To learn more about LINC’s Ticket to Work program, visit www.lincidahoworks.org, email ticket@lincidaho.org, or call 208-336-3335 and ask to speak with a Ticket to Work specialist.