January 2024

Employer Spotlight: Trader Joe's

Lee set big goals for himself when he started working at Trader Joe’s last September, and he is proud to report he accomplished three of them.

Goal 1: increase work hours - check ✅

Lee started with four hours a week and now works twelve.

Goal 2: learn new responsibilities - check ✅

Lee started with stocking items, retrieving carts, bagging groceries, and assisting customers. Now, he is also trained as a cashier working on the register.

Goal 3: work using the natural supports of his co-workers - check ✅

Lee recently transitioned to working independently without job coach support.

Bonus Goal: enhance quality of life - check ✅

Lee’s confidence increased as his work competence increased.

"I feel welcomed, and what I do is important. I enjoy learning all the different jobs at Trader Joe’s, and I’m proud that I have learned to be a cashier all by myself. The thing I like is that people are friendly, and my fellow crew members help me learn new jobs until I can do them by myself." - Lee

Lee's mom, Ronni, noted, "Lee is very happy working at Trader Joe’s. His self-confidence has increased. I enjoy coming to Trader Joe’s and hearing other crew members say they like Lee and enjoy working with him."

Lee’s success story at Trader Joe's is a testament to the positive impact of a supportive work environment. Trader Joe’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace is evident in Lee’s happiness and achievements.

From Volunteer to Part-Time Program Facilitator, Curt Funke Joins Our TotalLink Talent

In the Fall of 2022, Curt was inspired by TotalLink's artwork in the community, which led him to volunteer in our art program. What a gift that turned out to be. Curt's professional artistic expertise and skill for connecting with artists of all abilities made him a natural.

"We recognize talent when we see it and were thrilled when Curt accepted a role as a Program Facilitator," said Madison McGinty, TotalLink's Program Director. Now, he leads all three of TotalLink's art programs, plus Sarah's Karaoke Meetup, Guys Night Out, Guys Night In, and Dinner with Friends. Please join us in welcoming Curt to the TotalLink team of talent.

"Each time I enter into a program, I leave feeling like I had a great time with some truly great people. My involvement now is more than just teaching art…I now have new friends and a purpose. Thanks, TotalLink!" - Curt Funke

FUN FACT ABOUT CURT:

His favorite treat is a Dairy Queen Peanut Butter Parfait!

Learn more about Curt

Creating Memories on Canvas: Allissa's Artistic Tribute to Friendship

Jorie and Allissa, two TotalLink participants and friends, recently shared a heartwarming moment that transformed into a work of art. This is the story of how a beautiful sunset photograph taken by Jorie inspired Allissa's masterpiece.

In September, Jorie and Allissa were hanging out together when Jorie shared a sunset picture she had taken. Allissa, an artist in TotalLink's Open Art Studio program, asked if she could recreate the sunset in a painting. Over the next few months, Allissa dedicated herself to the task of capturing Jorie's sunset on canvas.

Spending time with our friends can spark great ideas and lasting memories. Allissa took the time to paint Jorie’s special photo, which turned out beautifully! Allissa shared, "I love sunsets and had a lot of fun making this painting with so many beautiful colors. I cherish all my friendships."

Jorie, expressing her gratitude, said, "I just really appreciate Allissa doing a wonderful job with the painting."

Stories like this mean a lot to us at TotalLink. We value the friendships that are formed during our programs and hope everyone can build lasting friendships like Jorie and Allissa’s.

"Friends are the most important part of your life. Treasure the tears, treasure the laughter, but most importantly, treasure the memories.” — Walter Winchell