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Hollywood Woman's Employment is in Fashion

HOLLYWOOD, FL - Katie Mitchell has made a great impression with her boss and her customers. The pleasant Hollywood woman happens to have a developmental disability. During October, which is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Florida's Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is putting the spotlight on Floridians like Mitchell who have careers and fulfilling lives.

Mitchell, who is diagnosed with a cognitive disability and an anxiety disorder, works as a floor associate at a Wal-Mart store in Miramar. While folding clothing in the ladies wear department and keeping the product displays organized, Mitchell is always willing to assist customers.

"Everybody loves her," says Shay Coley, the department manager. "Katie stays on task and is very detail oriented. She's great with customers---always pleasant and helpful. I wish I had 10 Katies!"

Mitchell's success on the job parallels the progress she has made in her free time. Formerly hampered by her anxiety disorder, she is now able to pay her bills, use an ATM, and deal with everyday situations that used to be major challenges for her. Mitchell's successes on the job and in living independently are due to her strong determination to improve herself through the services she receives from the agency.

APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn, and work in their communities. For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit apd.myflorida.com or call toll-free 1-866-APD-CARES (1-866-273-2273).

REMINDER FOR MEDIA---When reporting on stories about people with disabilities, remember to use language that puts the person first, rather than the disability. For example, use phrases such as "persons with disabilities" (instead of "the disabled") and "person who uses a wheelchair" (rather than "wheelchair bound").