At 72 years old, Lloyd is no stranger to life’s challenges—or to the strength it takes to keep moving forward. After a lifelong struggle with alcohol addiction, Lloyd was faced with one of his hardest chapters yet: the loss of his partner. The grief was overwhelming, but instead of retreating, Lloyd leaned into his recovery. Now, nearly a year into his longest stretch of sobriety, he’s taking steady steps to rebuild.
Lloyd is a dedicated worker, but navigating the job market in your seventies—especially with physical limitations—is no easy feat. Despite his kindness and reliability, Lloyd often felt dismissed because of his age.
“It’s hard,” he shared, “when people don’t see what you still have to offer.”
Lloyd began working with Cat, his IPS Employment Specialist, who recognized that the right job could offer him more than income—it could bring structure, stability, and a renewed sense of purpose. Through community connections, Cat helped identify an opportunity at Outpost Natural Foods. Lloyd was hired—and quickly became a valued member of the team. He enjoyed the work, the people, and the sense of belonging that came with it.
After a few months, however, Lloyd began to experience neuropathy in his hands, making some of the physically demanding tasks increasingly difficult. He wondered whether it was time to leave and rely solely on his limited SSI income. Cat encouraged him to explore his options, including having a conversation with his supervisors about a possible transition into a role that better suited his needs.
Lloyd took that advice to heart. After several thoughtful discussions with his team, he was offered a part-time position in a different department—better aligned with his physical abilities. The change made a big difference.
Today, Lloyd is happily employed, continuing his recovery journey, and finding more time for the things that bring him peace, like fishing and playing guitar. His story is a powerful testament to perseverance, self-advocacy, and what becomes possible when workplaces are willing to meet people where they are. Age isn’t a barrier to contribution—it’s a well of experience and quiet strength.
