Caitlyn Gibson recently joined CDCR as one of the first appointments under a pilot program, the Best Buddies Program. This program strives to enable more individuals with disabilities to become employed in the state workforce.
Caitlyn interviewed with the Governor’s Office and CDCR before becoming a member of the Human Resources team.
CDCR one of first to make appointment
CDCR is one of the first state agencies to make an appointment under this program.
“I have been trying to get on with the state since I was 18, so when I got this position I was very excited.” Caitlyn said.
“My goal is to stay with CDCR and keep moving up. I am looking forward to what the future holds for me at CDCR,” she said.
CDCR is one of five department’s working with the pilot program. Governor Newsom said the goal is to bring awareness of state jobs and full-time employment to the disabled community.
Selection process thorough
The State Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and the State Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) identified Caitlyn along with other candidates to be interviewed for the position.
Caitlyn was appointed full-time as an Executive Office Assistant. Her duties included:
- Assisting the Assistant Chief, Executive Services and Field Support
- Filing
- Setting up meetings
- General front counter reception duties in the Headquarters Personnel Office
Caitlyn also is training to assist with being a training coordinator for staff employed in personnel. She is always willing to assist with duties outside of her assigned area, and has become a valued member of our team.
Best Buddies fits into diversity, equity, inclusion goals
The Best Buddies Programs fits into the CDCR’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts.
The Best Buddies Program helps CDCR step outside of the general civil service hiring practices for those identified by the DDS and the DOR as potential candidates for appointments within state agencies and/or departments.
This program is a gateway for candidates to learn about state government. It also gives them an opportunity to gain office setting experience that could assist in becoming more marketable.
DDS and DOR work with department leaders and supervisors to identify the best matches between an individuals’ abilities and the department’s needs.
Extensive preparation work part of program
It is a joint effort to assist individuals with workplace preparation. The DOR provides on-site job coaching for selected candidates and meets regularly with the program.
“We’re so happy to have Caitlyn as part of our team” said Stacy Lopez, CDCR Director of the CDCR Division of Administrative Services. “She is extremely pleasant and is eager and willing to learn.”
Photograph by CDCR photographer Clarissa Resultan