Tallahassee Woman Spreads Goodwill
Debra McMillan has been employed for most of her adult life. For
the more than two years, she has worked in customer service at a Goodwill
Industries store in Tallahassee. Florida's Agency for Persons with Disabilities
(APD) is sharing inspiring stories about Floridians like McMillan during
October, which is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. McMillan is
diagnosed with cerebral palsy. She uses a wheelchair and has a speech
impairment.
According to Julie Bailey, the store's assistant manager, McMillan works with
clothing merchandise, taking it on and off hangers and keeping it organized.
"She's fantastic," Bailey boasted. "Debra's very dedicated---one of our hardest
workers. She's always here when she needs to be, and hardly ever misses
work."
Work has proved to be a positive experience for McMillan. Socializing on the
job has helped her to lead a more active role in her community. She advocates
for herself and for others with special needs---inspiring her co-workers along
the way.
"She's more open and outgoing than she used to be when she came here,"
Bailey
said. "She has great relationships with co-workers."
Naturally, her growth and development have meant improvement on the job,
especially in dealing with customers.
"Debra is great with customer service," Bailey said. "She's always willing and
able to help customers."
"I love my job!" McMillan exclaimed. "I meet different people, and it's always
good!"
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 www.apdcares.org or call toll-free 1- 866-APD-CARES (1-866-273-2273).
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