Another individual has found success working at McDonald’s thanks to the efforts of Fayette Progressive Industries (FPI).
Through utilization of the Employment First initiative (EFI), an effort that helps developmentally disabled adults to find work, and the Bridges to Transition program, which teaches them applicable skills to join the workforce, many have found success. Whether to help them cultivate physical skills, such as mopping, folding or sorting, to social skills, such as learning to connect to customers or networking opportunities, FPI has worked for years to help raise the standard of living for disabled residents.
Matthew Eichmann has only been working at the McDonald’s at U.S. Route 35 in Fayette County for about two months, but he said he loves it. Combining both his training from the McDonald’s staff with help from job coaches, he has all ready left an impression at his job.
“I make tea, pies, cookies, help to clean the play place and take food out to customers,” Eichmann said. “I really am enjoying it and have all ready made some new friends. I like earning a paycheck and I am very happy to have this job. They are really good to me at McDonald’s.”
Eichmann had a few words for individuals in the same position he was in, looking for more. He says to these individuals to work hard and try to find a good job that is enjoyable. He also said to try the best you can and through this hard work, good things will come.
“Matthew does a very nice job, is very punctual and has received many customer compliments,” Keith Tooill, McDonald’s area supervisor said. “He is a big asset for the company and really works hard interacting with the customers. He seems to enjoy his job and we enjoy him. We are always glad to be able to help the community and give opportunities to residents of Fayette County.”
Eichmann is hoping to move up in McDonald’s to perhaps become a team leader in the future. He wants to thank everyone at McDonald’s, especially Tooill, for giving him an opportunity. Eichmann participates in other activities when he isn’t working. Between going to church, doing research on the computer, participating on the track team and the softball team, he is always busy.
“We really want employers to realize these individuals all possess skills, determination and ethics that they are looking for,” Betty Reisinger, community service specialist at Fayette Progressive, said. “All they need is a bit of guidance and some practice, and they can make the best employees at any business.”
This story is the 10th in a series that showcases the success stories of individuals within the county with disabilities who have faced adversity and grown through the process to become more independent adults. For more information about the programs described here and other programs, contact Fayette Progressive Industries at (740) 335-7453.
