October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month! In honor of this special time, I’ve invited Mahalia, an employee of GESMV’s Good Connections Café, to serve as guest blogger to share what employment means to her.
Since the grand opening of Good Connections Café in April 2024, Mahalia has been a shining star on the team. Her journey is a testament to how meaningful employment can empower individuals and foster personal growth. – Shari
💬 What Employment Means to Mahalia
When asked what employment means to her, Mahalia shared: “It means a sense of independence, [and] a chance to make money for things I enjoy.”
Her job coach, Michelle, couldn’t agree more. She has witnessed Mahalia’s confidence and independence flourish over the past year, noting how much Mahalia has grown both personally and professionally.
☕ Life Behind the Counter
What is Mahalia’s favorite part of working at the café?
“Working at the café gives me a chance to work on my social skills as well as my math skills.” she said with a grin.
Michelle added, “Mahalia comes in every day with a positive attitude and ready to work. She greets all customers warmly —most of them by name!” Mahalia has even started challenging herself to calculate change before the register does, with customers cheering her on by paying in cash.
🚚 Preparing for the Food Truck Adventure
Looking ahead, Mahalia is excited about transitioning to work on the café’s food trucks.
“It is teaching me to get orders out in a timely manner and to double-check my work before giving it to the customer,” she explained.
📚 Always Learning, Always Leading
Mahalia’s desire for growth doesn’t stop there. She’s eager to improve her customer service and learn management skills. She’s already stepping into leadership by helping train new team members, managing register change, and delivering deposits to the finance department.
Michelle proudly shared that Mahalia has mastered a wide range of skills—from food safety and cash handling to customer interaction and food prep. “Watching Mahalia grow has been one of the most rewarding parts of my job.” she said.
💸 The Joy of Earning
When asked how earning her own money has impacted her life, Mahalia lit up.
“I get to save it or spend it however I want. It makes trips, cruises, mini vacations, and getting my hair and nails done more enjoyable because I worked for it.”
🌈 Looking Ahead
With her positive attitude and drive, Mahalia is well on her way to achieving every goal she sets for herself. Michelle is excited to see what the future holds for Mahalia, too. Mahalia looks forward to becoming a cashier at a restaurant and seeing how these successes will continue to help her live her best life!
It is a pleasure getting coffee because of your wonderful customer service ability. You are always pleasant and professional, and you know when I need strong coffee. 🙂