Taking the Lead: Shira’s Path to Greater Independence

In May, Shira started a new job at Trader Joe’s. Just a month later, she stood before guests at Birch Family Services’ Fifth Annual Golf Classic and shared her journey and success. 

Standing alongside her mother, Suzanne, the 31-year-old spoke about her experiences in Birch’s New Frontier program and the work she now enjoys. Suzanne shared her perspective as a parent, while Shira had the opportunity to tell her own story. 

“I felt proud and accomplished,” Shira said. 

It was a meaningful moment for someone who, before joining Birch, had been uncertain about their next steps. 

From an early age, Suzanne recognized that Shira might need additional support with her development. Working with therapists helped Shira build skills and make progress, though pursuing greater independence brought new challenges as she grew older. After losing a job she had really enjoyed, Shira felt stuck and struggled to find the motivation to move forward. 

That began to change in January 2025, when Shira joined New Frontier and met Birch Job Developer Olivia Cannon. The two quickly formed a strong connection, creating a foundation for working toward Shira’s goals. 

“Olivia is a tremendous advocate for Shira,” said Suzanne. 

“We work very well together and we’re a good match,” Shira added. 

Together, Shira and Olivia explored her strengths, discussed what she wanted from a job, and identified jobs that aligned with her interests. Through mock interviews and résumé workshops, Shira developed her interviewing skills and began rebuilding confidence. 

That work helped her take the next step in her employment journey. This past spring, Shira was hired as a team member at Trader Joe’s. 

“I have customers, I greet them, and I work behind the cash register. It’s fun,” she said. 

Shira also spends time stocking shelves, socializing with and helping customers, and enjoys working with her colleagues. Now, Shira has a clear goal: to work the cash register independently. Olivia continues to provide employment support, helping Shira build the skills and confidence to take on that responsibility with less assistance while remaining available when she needs guidance.

“The growth that Shira has demonstrated in just four short months at Trader Joe’s has been remarkable,” said Olivia.  “Today, she is confidently telling me to step aside and let her take the lead. I am incredibly proud of all she has accomplished and excited to see how much more she continues to grow.””

For Suzanne, that continued partnership is an important part of helping her daughter succeed. She wants Shira to have support that helps her stay on top of her responsibilities and grow with the demands of employment. 

“Birch can provide that for her,” Suzanne said. 

Shira’s connection to Birch extends beyond her ongoing work with Olivia. From attending the Soirée to running for Birch in the New York City Half Marathon, she is finding new ways to participate in and support the community. With her next goal in sight, Shira continues to build on her accomplishments and is grateful for her support at home, at work, and at Birch.  

“Being a part of a team is good for me,” Shira said.