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and action that will result here and there n an upward movement to bring a better

ay to deaf-blind persons.

PLACEMENT OF JOHN HANCOCK

By Robert J. Prause

Placement Specialist

Mr. John Hancock, who celebrated his fiftieth birthday while in training at the National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults, was successfully placed at the Beehive Clothing Mills in Salt Lake City, Utah. He started his training at the National Center on August 23, 1971. He came to the Center with 27 years of work experience. During these years he worked as a deaf person and terminated his employment when the loss of a great deal of his vision made it impossible for him to perform his clerical duties.

It was because of Mr. Hancock's very extensive work background and eagerness to learn and participate in the rehabilitation

program that he was able to complete the program and return to his home in a relatively short period of time. He was given extensive training in mobility, skills of daily living, communications and industrial arts and on December 16, 1971 he was terminated as it was felt he gained maximum benefit in all the aforementioned areas.

The placement was a joint effort,

since the National Center received the fine cooperation of Miss Tauba Sass, Rehabilitation Counselor of the Utah State Commission for the Visually Handicapped, the employment office of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints, and the management of the Beehive Clothing Mills. If this cooperation had not been forthcoming the placement of a deaf-blind person such d Mr. Hancock would be almost impossible. In addition to this, Mr. Hancock's ability is equally important because it was he who

John Hancock at stayer machine making boxes at Beehive Clothing Mill, Salt Lake City, Utah.

demonstrated to the management that he could work with the dual disability of deaf-blindness. His competence actually alleviated any apprehension on the part of the management.

Mr. Hancock is operating what is known as a "Stayer Machine". This machine, operated by a foot pedal, tapes the corners of pre-scored cardboard ultimately making various sized boxes and lids. The operator must have good organization, good hand-foot coordination, and good finger dexterity. In this type of job rhythm and speed are gained by performing the duties over a period of time. Not too many hours passed on Mr. Hancock's first day of employment when it became evident that he would meet production standards.

John is doing exceedingly well,

according to Mr. Harmon, manager of Beehive Clothing Company, and Mr. Allan Birmingham, maintenance supervisor and John's boss.

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Not only is the machine and surrounding area spotlessly clean, but John is keeping his daily production record of completed boxes, relieving his supervisor of this task. After only a month on the job, he has made as many as 1000 boxes and lids per day. The company is planning to train John on other jobs so that he will have continuous employment.

As mentioned above, a successful placement needs the cooperation of many people and many agencies. It should not be forgotten that the families of deaf-blind persons must also cooperate. Had it not been for the kindness and understanding of Mr. Hancock's wife and children, his rehabilitation might not have materialized. However, since it was offered in the best interest of Mr. Hancock, he is now gainfully employed and reunited with his family as its husband and father.