America’s Workforce – Empowering All
Reflecting a commitment to a robust and competitive American labor force, the 2018 National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) theme is “America’s Workforce – Empowering All!” Observed each October, NDEAM celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities and educates about the value of a workforce inclusive of their skills and talents.
The Philadelphia “Employment 1st, Employment NOW!” Steering Committee is once again celebrating this event with a month of employment success stories. Each day we will be posting another success story about someone who is contributing to their community through employment. For those who have requested to receive our employment announcements, you will receive the link to the story in your mailbox. We invite you to join us as we celebrate the successes of people with disabilities working in our communities!
October 2 – These Boots Were Made for Working!
Working professionals understand that paying your dues and developing a great rapport with your employer will reap long-term benefits. Maddie learned this valuable lesson during her last two years of high school, when she put in 12 hours per week as an intern at Clothes Mentor. As an intern, Maddie worked hard to master her tasks and develop efficient methods. She proved that she could offer valuable contributions and was officially hired shortly before graduation in June 2018.
On a typical day, Maddie can be found on the sales floor, singing along to the radio as she organizes new garments based on style, size, and color. She also assists with back stocking, inventory, and transitioning the store for each new season. By focusing on these crucial tasks, her coworkers have more time for sales, buys, and customer relations. Maddie’s supervisors and coworkers provide incredible natural supports, which has helped her achieve her long desired goal of working completely independently!
The store’s owners express amazement at the progress they’ve seen. Her coworkers and supervisors appreciate her hard work, her delightful sense of humor, and her determination to succeed. Maddie’s mother is thrilled that she has found a place to work that values her as an employee, and provides consistency in tasks and supports that allow her to shine.
As the store rolled out it’s Fall fashion offerings, Maddie was featured on the store’s Instagram account displaying her favorite pair of fall boots!
– submitted by Community Integrated Services (CIS)