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October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time to recognize the contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workforce and the employers who champion inclusion. Today, we shine a spotlight on Russell Kantun, a 21-year-old who has turned determination and opportunity into a story of success-thanks to the support of Gold Coast Transit District and The Arc of Ventura County.
A Partnership Driving Opportunity
Gold Coast Transit District, Ventura County’s leading public transportation provider, is more than just buses and routes-it’s a workplace committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment. Their culture is described as supportive, accommodating, and friendly, where every team member is greeted with a smile and a “good morning.” This commitment to inclusion made them the perfect partner for The Arc of Ventura County in fostering meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Russell’s Path to Employment
Before joining Gold Coast Transit District, Russell participated in the STEP Program and completed a Paid Internship at Cal Fire, where he learned essential workplace skills like cleaning, restocking, and food prep. These experiences laid the foundation for his next big step- handling currency at Gold Coast Transit.
Today, Russell works 10 hours a week in the secure cash room, where he plays a vital role in processing fare revenue. His responsibilities include:
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- Sorting and stacking cash bills from bus fare boxes
- Using a counting machine to verify amounts
- Wrapping and bagging currency for deposit
- Weighing coin bags to 20 lbs and labeling them with date and weight
Russell’s goal was clear: become efficient in handling currency and record-keeping, and perform tasks independently without job coach assistance. With guidance from his job coach and the support of Gold Coast Transit staff, Russell has made remarkable progress. He now confidently counts, records, and prepares deposits-skills he once thought were out of reach.
Overcoming Challenges, Building Confidence
When Russell started, he had no understanding of money or how to use counting machines. Through patient training and observation, he learned each step of the process. His job coach from The Arc of Ventura County worked closely with him, ensuring accuracy and reinforcing employer protocols. Today, Russell takes initiative, moving from one task to the next without prompting-a true sign of growing independence.
What This Job Means
For Russell, the job is more than a paycheck. “I like it because I earn money and now understand the value of a dollar, ” he shares proudly. His job coach adds, “Russell has become very focused on his tasks and is eager to learn more. ”
Gold Coast Transit District echoes this sentiment, viewing Russell’s success as the beginning of something bigger: a pathway to future employment opportunities for others with disabilities.
Looking Ahead
Russell has been with Gold Coast Transit for four months, and while formal recognitions are still ahead, his achievements speak volumes. His story is a testament to what’s possible when employers, community organizations, and individuals work together to create inclusive workplaces.
As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, let Russell’s journey inspire us all to continue breaking barriers and building opportunities-because inclusion drives us forward.