HMEA Program:
Employment Services
Employer:
Dean College
What was your first experience with HMEA like?
I lived in two of HMEA’s group homes. I originally lived in North Attleboro with a few other people, but then we moved to Attleboro. Today, I live with a shared living provider, and I’m part of HMEA’s employment services program.
How did you get connected with Dean College?
Before my old boss moved to Florida, she asked me if I wanted to work in the washroom at Dean College. I went to campus for an interview, and I loved it! It’s the best job HMEA has ever helped me get.
What do you do at Dean?
I work in the washroom cleaning off plates when kids don’t finish their breakfast or lunch. I get a lot of dishes like bowls, cups, and silverware, so I put them on a cart, bring them to a dishwasher in the back, and load them into the dishwasher. When the dishes are clean, one of my friends and coworkers unloads the dishwasher and puts the clean dishes back on the cart. When the cart’s full, I help him bring it out and put the clean dishes where they need to go. There are a lot of stations to keep track of like sandwiches, desserts, and more.
What’s your favorite thing about working at Dean?
My favorite things are working in the dish room and meeting new students and people! Sometimes I’ll get to talk to students when they put their dishes on the conveyor belt, and they’ll say “Thank you, have a nice day.”
Now that students are on vacation, do you have any plans for the summer?
I’m working at HMEA’s Employment Services program in Plainville, as well as the home office in Franklin. I’m in charge of lawn service for the summer.
How else are you involved with HMEA?
I’m volunteering with HMEA’s incredABLE Day! I’m not only working in the food tent, but I’m also serving on the entertainment and activities sub-committee.
Previously, I worked out of the home office in Franklin. I was an orientation trainer for the Community Connection program.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I love going to the movies! I also have two friends who are twin brothers, and I like to hang out with them. We’re taking part in a fundraiser walk in Walpole.