That's a question that's been on my mind for some time now. Even when I do find work, it's only temporary and usually only lasts about three months out of the year and I'm back to sitting at home after that.
My employment specialist does his best to find some good leads for me, but they never really go anywhere either because they want someone with several years of experience on top of education credentials, or, in the case of Brevard County's public sector, it's impossible to get in anywhere because transfers and veterans get first priority.
Now, I don't have a problem with veterans preferences. Those folks need jobs as much as anyone, but transfers? Yeah, I'm never applying to this county's public sector again. I've been turned down for lack of experience and lack of a valid driver's license, but that load of crap takes the cake.
The Private Sector down here is just as bad, if not worse. Hell, it's practically nonexistent. The only thing anyone can get down here is sales or shit wage, dead end, go nowhere work because the few technology companies won't touch anyone fresh out of college either, and if you're disabled and an employment specialist goes with you to an interview, that's the same as painting a target on your ass, though those employment agencies will vehemently disagree.
And here's the thing about being disabled in this county and many other areas down south: If you're disabled, you have no chance in hell at obtaining real employment or the benefits that come with it. Your hours will be the first to be slashed when the slow season begins. Your manager will find any excuse to get rid of you, and worst of all, disability services are a nightmare to navigate in order to get what you need to keep your head above water.
I know some of you here will tell me to relocate, but as I've said before, that isn't an option because I'd have no support or transportation if I even tried. Oh, and I don't have the money. And according to family members, "It's this bad everywhere."
So here's my advice, if anyone is thinking about coming down to the state of Florida, don't. It's fucking miserable down here and that's not likely to change anytime soon.
See you around,
Homer