Avid Gamer and Effective Employee
By Katie StricklandWhen asked what drives him to keep employment with Waterfront Mission Bargain Center, Andre Lewis candidly answers, “I just want to buy my own things for my room. I like games, and I want a big TV and my own cell phone.”
It comes as no surprise that Andre, an avid video gamer, would find his motivation in the ability to pursue his hobby. Andre is a tech savvy man with a competitive streak, and gaming is the ultimate outlet for him.
Located in Pensacola, Florida, less than five miles from the Pensacola Bay, Waterfront Bargain Center has hired Andre in their paid internship program. Originally beginning with the company as a trainee, Andre has developed and utilized key skills for successful employment thanks to the Agency for Persons with Disabilities paid internship program. Store manager Mal Thompson, along with his supervisory team, tapped Andre for the promotion from trainee to sales associate.
“Andre adds value to our organization by being hardworking, eager to please, and friendly to everyone he sees,” said Mr. Thompson, speaking of why Andre is an asset to his team.
The company sells quality, gently-used goods, and Andre excels in linking customers with the items for which they are searching. He is so successful at this that he began getting requested by name specifically to assist customers. Andre takes true pride in pleasing a customer. In a recent position shift, Andre has been tasked with sorting inventory, which allows him to continue to thrive. His propensity to work well as part of a team makes Andre an effective employee.
Andre’s mother credits his vocation for a transformation of his demeanor. She now sees her son as more confident, flashing a smile more often, and more giving with hugs. The independence he has gained through his employment feeds into his self-worth.
Carolyn Sutton, Andre’s job coach and owner of Express Employment Services, has watched Andre advance in the work place at an unexpected pace. From her perspective, Andre has learned to “go above and beyond what’s required to complete the task” at hand and she is proud of his accomplishments. Andre has transformed into the embodiment of positive self-image and a fruitful member of the workforce.
Andre has transformed into the embodiment of positive self-image and a fruitful member of the workforce.
Tweet