Adult School Student Gets Hired for Dream Job

Catrina Garcia puts on her apron, settles a net over her brunette hair, and begins icing bat-shaped Halloween cookies. “Ever since I was ten years old, I knew I wanted to be a baker. I’ve always loved that sweet smell,” she says.

Garcia, a student from Castro Valley Adult & Career Education’s Strides program for adults with disabilities, is achieving her dream, thanks to Christine Clement, owner of Swiss Delices bakery. 

Originally from Switzerland, Clement came to the United States in 1998 and opened Swiss Delices, a European-style fine bakery, in 2008.

She contacted Kathy Castaneda, department coordinator of the school’s Strides program, which was expanding its efforts to connect students to both paid employment and volunteer work. Castaneda set up several students to interview.

“When I interviewed Catrina, she was so passionate that I knew she would be a good fit here,” Clement says. 

Castaneda stresses the importance of employment for adults with disabilities.

“Work is meaningful on so many levels whether you are fully or differently-abled. It gives students a more balanced life, greater independence, and a sense that they are part of society,” she remarks.

In preparation for a paid job, many Strides students practice their work skills volunteering at businesses in the community such as Don Jose's and New Hope Skilled Nursing Facility. 

“Work is essential for anyone’s identity and self-worth,” observes Clement. “Catrina can say ‘I am a baker. I am able to do this. I am part of you.’ Being part of the community and having a purpose is very powerful.

And for Catrina Garcia? “My first day working was the greatest day of my life,” she says proudly.

The Strides program at Castro Valley Adult & Career Education is seeking additional employment opportunities for its students. If your business is interested, please contact Kathy Castaneda at kathycast@ymail.com or via the adult school at (510) 886-1000. 

Swiss Delices is located at 3315 Castro Valley Boulevard and is open 7 days a week. Phone (510) 881-8669 or go to www.swissdelices.com