Troy's Story
"I want to be a Greeter or a Cart Person"
Troy has been working with Holly Ridge Center since May of 2006. We started by searching for permanent employment. When Troy first chose Holly Ridge Center to assist him in finding employment, he wanted to work in a video store, tree service company, mowing company or a landscaping company. As he finished school and realized the different jobs available Troy said “I want to be a Greeter or a Cart Person”. We started applying for those types of positions.
In September, he was called in for an interview from Safeway. Troy did GREAT. She asked him all sorts of questions. Next thing you know she got a piece of paper and drug test out and made him sign it. One of us asked if he had the job and she said as long as he can pass the drug test.
September 13, 2006 was his official first day of work. Holly Ridge Center worked with him to help train for his new position. He has been working there ever since, as a Courtesy Clerk. His managers and coworkers love him.
Since Troy has participated in Special Olympics for years and didn’t want to give that up, but was willing to for work, if necessary. Safeway works with him on his schedule and lets him off or changes his schedule, so he can continue to attend them. They call him in on his days off and work him extra when they know he has transportation. They work him more when someone takes a vacation.
He was bagging groceries one day and a secret shopper came in, they gave him a good mark. He is very proud of this accomplishment. We are too. He has been there since and says “I LOVE MY JOB”. Holly Ridge Center helped to train him and continues doing on going support with him.