One of the best parts for the people at Paladin, Inc. is the partnership between businesses in the Region to provide employment for many of its clients. Paladin is an organization that focuses on proudly serving people of all ages with disabilities.
Diane Downs, employment training specialist with Paladin, considers this opportunity to be a game changer for many of their clients.
“We have several individuals who are employed with businesses across Northwest Indiana,” Downs said. “The Paladin employment team is dedicated to making sure our individuals are successful when it comes to working in the community. We work very hard and diligently to find a good placement in a business where they will thrive.”
One of the businesses that partners with Paladin for its clients is Strack & Van Til. Michael Schab, who works at Strack & Van Til in Hammond, is all about spreading positivity even on the difficult days.
“It can be challenging at times,” Schab said. “You have to stack products on the shelves and pace yourself while also being there for the customers. It’s a lot to handle but I really like it. I’m always in a positive attitude at work no matter if it’s a good or bad day.”
Brandon, Michael’s employment specialist, is proud to see the work and dedication that he has put in every shift.
“Michael is a very good employee and does a great job at Strack & Van Til,” he said. “Working in the community is a great opportunity for him as well.”
Another business that Paladin has worked with for its employment opportunities is McDonald’s. Rusty Jones, who works for McDonald’s in Michigan City, maintains a joyous energy every time she comes in for her shift.
“I have a lot of fun working at McDonald’s,” Jones said. “I’ve done the dishes, window, and the lobby. I try to be nice to everybody I see at work such as the customers, my co-workers, team members, and managers.”
One of Jones’ favorite parts of her job is speaking with the customers. She sometimes has to run food outside for the people in the drive-thru and always wishes each customer a great rest of the day.
Abigail Jimenez, shift leader at McDonald’s and Jones’ manager, always looks forward to working with her.
“I love working with Rusty,” Jimenez said. “She comes in every day and does what she’s supposed to do. She doesn’t give me a hard time at all. If she ever loses focus, I only have to tell her once and she’s right back to work.
The connection between Paladin and McDonald’s has provided an awesome opportunity for people with disabilities. Jimenez believes the partnership between Paladin and their other businesses is a win for everybody involved.
“It doesn’t only give us a chance to work with people who have disabilities,” Jimenez said. “This also gives them an opportunity to learn and look forward to each day. Rusty always comes to work, and we love having people like that here.”
Paladin utilizes this opportunity as a way to not only be there for the individuals but also the businesses. Downs is hopeful this opportunity can last for many years to come.
“It’s very important for them to be happy and perform well,” Downs said. “Whether that means moving up in the business or taking on different tasks, we’re making sure that they will be happy for the long haul. We want to maintain this rapport with our local businesses and let them know we’ll always be here for our individuals.”
For more information about Paladin Care, you can visit its website.
