Nikki D’Agostino
Punta Gorda, Florida
Helping those less fortunate than myself is unequivocally the most satisfying and fulfilling experience. Through my efforts to help others, I have acquired innumerable experiences of joy and friendship.
I am particularly drawn to aiding the developmentally disabled, physically and mentally disabled, the underprivileged, and the underemployed. As such, at an early age I began volunteering at Wrentham Developmental Center, a state facility in Massachusetts, where I volunteered for over 160 hours of community service directly aiding with recreational activities for developmentally disabled individuals.
I attended Suffolk University where I graduated highest distinction with a Bachelor’s degree of Science in clinical psychology. During my college years I worked at Arbour-Fuller Psychiatric Hospital for two years where I worked very closely with dual diagnoses patients (mental illness and co-occurring drug addiction).
I have always enjoyed working with the less fortunate, as it is a job that can be extraordinarily fulfilling. I worked as a Career Specialist for two years at a non-profit organization in Massachusetts where I helped integrate individuals with barriers to employment into the competitive workforce.
I have found immense fulfillment in my career, as I have had many wonderful opportunities to aid under-served individuals. Working as an Employment Specialist at Project: Return to Work Inc has given me the opportunity to work with employers to strive for equality and diversity in the workplace, and to implement the new Employment First Initiative that is sweeping the nation.
As I continue to expand my career, it is important for me to learn and utilize new methodologies so that I can be a leader in the mental health, disabilities, and veterans communities. I am always pushing myself to learn new skills and knowledge so that I can be a better leader, organizer and advocate.