LIFT Annual Report 2014: What Matters Most | Page 32

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REAL STORIES

Risks and Rewards: A
Conversation Between
Coddy J. & Rafael
LIFT-LA board member Coddy Johnson talks to
Rafael, a Member, about the challenges he’s
faced and how he’s overcome them.
Coddy: How did you discover LIFT?
Rafael: I was visiting an L.A. County office across the hall
from LIFT. I was there applying for disability after a work
accident.
What happened?
I hit my knee on a piece of sharp metal, and a few months
later, I slipped on oil that had been spilled on the floor.
My back required surgery. My Advocate helped me apply
for unemployment Insurance and solve transportation and
legal issues.
I am so glad to hear you say that Rafael. LIFT is very
intentional about integrating with other social services
in Magnolia Place. LIFT stays with you and hopes to be
a kind of “primary care physician,” helping navigate the
system.
It’s true. Whatever problem you have, LIFT offers a warm
welcome. They are cariñosas [kind/loving].
One of the things I appreciate most about LIFT is the
emphasis on human connection and the dignity in how
LIFT treats members.