For Ralph, a job is about more than just a paycheck. It means independence, serving his community, and taking pride in doing a job well. With support from CAREERS Support Solutions, Ralph has navigated workplace changes, maintained meaningful employment, and thrived at ACME Supermarket for more than 10 years.
Ralph began working at ACME in June 2016. When his original store location was scheduled to close, he had to interview for a position at the New Rochelle location. A CAREERS Employment Specialist helped him prepare for his interview and navigate the transition. Although not all employees were retained, Ralph successfully secured a position at the new location.
Since then, CAREERS has continued to support Ralph through regular check-ins and guidance from his Employment Specialist, Jennifer. Her ongoing visits help Ralph stay on track, feel supported, and succeed in his role.
Today, Ralph’s tasks include collecting shopping carts and maintaining the bottle-return machines. He also takes great pride in the relationships he has built with customers over the years. Ralph says he receives many customer compliments a day. His positive attitude and commitment to excellent service have made a lasting impression.
“I take care of customers and have known them forever,” Ralph shared. “I treat my customers fairly and with respect.”
Ralph brings dedication and a strong sense of responsibility to his work. He credits his late father with teaching him to “work smart,” and he takes pride in bringing a positive attitude to the job every day.
That dedication has not gone unnoticed. ACME recently recognized Ralph with a watch honoring his years of excellent service, a meaningful milestone that reflects his commitment, consistency, and the relationships he has built.
Ralph recognized the people who have supported him throughout his journey. He expressed his appreciation for Jennifer, his CAREERS Employment Specialist, for regularly visiting him at work and checking in on how he is doing.
“I thank Jennifer for coming to see me and checking in on how I’m doing at work,” Ralph said.
Ralph’s story highlights the impact of supported employment and the importance of workplaces where people with disabilities can contribute, build lasting relationships, and be recognized for their achievements. With CAREERS by his side and a commitment to doing his best, Ralph continues to show what meaningful employment looks like.
CAREERS Support Solutions empowers people with intellectual, developmental, psychiatric, and/or physical disabilities to achieve dignity, financial independence, and a true sense of community. Services include workforce readiness classes, vocational training, internship and job placements, long-term support, social skills development, and more, all at no cost to participants, their families, or employers.
Learn more at careerssupportsolutions.org or email CareersforPeople@aol.com.