RECOGNITION: Coji Maddona, a former Smethport resident and 2013 Smethport High graduate, is making a difference in his community of Boardman, Ohio.

He’s a vocational specialist with Matrix Companies, and was recently recognized by the “Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities” for his work with a man who was struggling to find the right vocational environment for himself that would accommodate his disabilities.

Madonna helped him find a job at a cafe, and helped him pinpoint practical solutions to overcome his challenges. He also worked with the man to help him gain self-confidence and to realize he didn’t need to fear being fired from his position for a simple mistake. Maddona also helped him learn how to handle triggers while working.

The man also received guidance from a co-worker of Maddona’s and with the help of the two vocational workers was able to land and maintain his dream job, despite his disabilities.

Receiving and maintaining this position has inspired this man to be currently saving for his own apartment and to work with the Ashtabula County Board of Developmental Disabilities for help getting his drivers license. Without the initial help from Maddona and his coworker, this would not have been a plausible dream.

The Era found out about Maddona’s achievements from his grandmother, Janet Jaksetic of West Valley Road in Smethport. Jaksetic raised her grandson, and is exceedingly proud of the difference he is making for his community.