Meet Paige #NDEAM
A school cafeteria is a busy, loud place full of students eager to see friends, socialize, and get the essential nutrition they need to learn and grow. Students line up to grab the essentials. On the walls and even the ceiling are affirmations that set the tone for the day ahead. “Everyone is welcome. Everyone Belongs” and “I Am A Leader” appear on the bulletin boards, describing a school community that nurtures the growth of the students at Eugene Field School in Rock Island. Paige Frees, a Cafeteria Supervisor, greets every student with a radiant smile and a helping hand, making sure students get the assistance they require, including opening milk or apple sauce containers. She embodies the values set out in these statements because she genuinely enjoys people, especially the students she interacts with. “I enjoy my work. It’s cool to see the kids. I like all of it.”
Says her supervisor, Beth MacKenna, of the Rock Island/Milan School District, “Paige started out in the kitchen.” But it was easy to see she was a better fit out on the cafeteria floor. She required little supervision, and her ability and eagerness made the role a perfect fit. “She was always smiling.” By working with her and The Arc’s Community Employment Services program, Beth helped Paige find the right fit and was rewarded with an independent and dependable employee.
Paige has advice for anyone with a disability who might be looking for opportunities in the workplace: “Your disability doesn’t define you. It’s your superpower. You are stronger than you know. You can do it.” Paige has taken those statements to heart and is thriving as a Cafeteria Supervisor. But this isn’t her only job. Paige also works weekends at Happy Joe’s, and when school is out for break, she takes temporary jobs at Electro Freeze. “It helps pay the bills.”
Paige’s participation in The Arc’s “Job Group,” a program that provides trained staff for one-on-one and group support, facilitates skill-building workshops, and coordinates activities, was an essential part of gaining the confidence to pursue her goals and help guide her through career exploration, personal development, and goal setting. Says Paige of Job Group, “It was precious to me.”
The Arc celebrates individuals like Paige during Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) to support their growth and exploration into their career pathways, and to encourage employers to explore the talents and contributions of people with disabilities in the job force. Use the link HERE to explore opportunities with The Arc’s Community Employment Services program as an individual or employer.
Throughout October, The Arc will be highlighting the stories of individuals and employers who are building more inclusive workplaces across the Quad Cities. By partnering with local businesses, The Arc is helping to break down barriers, promote understanding, and demonstrate that when people of all abilities are included, the entire community thrives.
