One of the best employees he’s ever had
When Evergreen Board Member Rev. Barry Chance was asked by the owner of the local Firehouse Subs if he knew any church members who would be interested in taking a job on the lunch shift, Rev. Chance took the opportunity to suggest a different option. He asked the sub shop owner, Shawn McWaters, if he would consider hiring a person with a disability. Rev. Chance explained that the job sounded perfect for many of the individuals served by Evergreen.
A few days later Mr. McWaters changed one woman’s life forever. He hired Elizabeth, an individual served by Evergreen’s Southeast Louisiana Division, who had been looking for a job for months.
Having a job has made Elizabeth’s self-confidence soar. It’s one of the first things she tells everyone she meets. And her paychecks have helped her gain significant independence.
“Elizabeth’s enthusiasm and passion for her job have been a welcome addition to our team,” says Annette McWaters, manager and co-owner of Firehouse Subs. “We are proud that she’s a part of Firehouse Subs.”
Through your donations, Evergreen is able to offer a supportive employment program for individuals like Elizabeth who secure employment in their community. Thanks to you, Elizabeth receives transportation to and from work, additional training when needed and help with keeping her uniform clean and staying well groomed. Her supportive employment team frequently checks in with her manager to make sure Elizabeth is fulfilling her job requirements. They have never received a negative report about Elizabeth’s work performance, but if they did, her team would address it with additional training and coaching.
When Rev. Chance sees Mr. McWaters at Hammond’s Chamber of Commerce meetings, the sub shop owner always tells him that Elizabeth is “one of the best employees he’s ever had.” His experience with employing Elizabeth has turned him into an advocate for hiring individuals with disabilities, and he has introduced Rev. Chance to many business owners who are interested in learning more.
You too can make a big difference by hiring an individual with a disability. Learn more by filling out an online form at evergreenls.org/contact.