A Trio to Success

By Christine Call

Amanda Lynch is a cheerful, energetic woman who enjoys working and staying busy.  She is a front end service worker at the Winn-Dixie supermarket on Gladiolus Drive in Fort Myers.

Lynch has a developmental disability and is a customer of Florida’s Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD).

When working at Winn-Dixie, Lynch bags groceries and also is in charge of getting the carts from the parking lot.  Job Coach Darlene Free said, “Winn-Dixie is a good fit.  Amanda’s time management skills are improving and she is more at ease lining up more than a few carts at a time.”

Amanda Hackworth is a manager with Winn-Dixie and is Lynch’s supervisor.  Hackworth explained Lynch went through the regular interview process and is the first person with a disability she has hired.  “Everyone deserves a chance and an opportunity, and she’s a harder worker than some of her colleagues.  She has a great attitude and I’ve had no complaints.  I highly recommend hiring people with disabilities,” Hackworth said.

Hackworth pointed out an added benefit is to see attitudes change. The younger workers now have a better understanding and appreciation for what people with disabilities can do.

Lynch said, “I like my coworkers and boss, and being part of a team.  I love being busy at work and talking with the customers.”  She works two or three days a week at Winn-Dixie and hopes to add some additional hours to become more independent. 

Lynch also works at two other jobs through the Opportunity Services Adult Training Program (ADT). She provides housekeeping services at the Diamond Head Resort and the Salvation Army shelter program.

Lynch’s other jobs help bring in additional money. Her support coordinator, Dalila Borreago, explained how Opportunity Services ADT is integrated in the community. Borreago said, “There are different contracts so folks work at different places. They provide real work experience in an inclusive environment.”

A highlight for Lynch was being recognized at a conference by Governor Rick Scott for her employment success.

When Lynch is not working, she likes talking on the phone, visiting with her boyfriend, bowling, and watching movies.

Amanda Lynch collecting carts at a Ft. Myers Winn-Dixie supermarket.