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Organizational skills give Jordan an edge on the job

Daniel Jordan is proud to be on the staff at Westminster Oaks, an active retirement community in Tallahassee. What started as a volunteer position in the physical therapy department soon turned into a part-time job offer in dining services.

Jordan was noticed for his organizational skills while a volunteer and the word spread. "I've been an employee in dining services for 21/2 years at Westminster. It's a great place," said Jordan, 25.

"I do prep work in setting up tables and chairs, I work in the dish room loading the silverware, and I help with special events. They're really fun," he added. "I bus the tables, then break them down afterwards. I make sure the extra tables are stored a certain way so they don't get scratched."

Jordan was born with Down syndrome and receives services from Florida's Agency for Persons with Disabilities. October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, when the agency highlights the contributions that persons with disabilities make to the workforce.

"The pride Danny takes in his job makes him very much an asset to our team," said Sharon Rollins, dining room supervisor. "He's always on time, always positive, and is happy to do whatever is asked of him. His organizational skills are something else. For instance, before he leaves work every day, he cleans and organizes his work area so that when he comes in the next day, he's ready to get right to work."

Jordan received an award not long ago for outstanding job performance. "The residents love him — I think it's that great smile he gives everyone," Rollins said.

When his shift is over, Jordan heads to the physical and occupational therapy departments where he volunteers at least an hour a day. Asked why Westminster Oaks is so special, Jordan commented, "Having a real job means the world to me, and everyone is so nice at Westminster. They sometimes show me a better way to do something. I like that. I want to do the job right. Besides, I like helping people."

APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn and work in their communities. The agency annually serves about 50,000 Floridians with developmental disabilities. For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit APDcares.org.