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Corralling a Job
By Mary Ann Magann
Jacksonville, FL— Simpson Hang was like most teenagers leaving high school, he wanted to get a job. Hang had performed a variety of internships while attending Alden Road Exceptional Student Center in Jacksonville. He was willing to work, but just needed an opportunity.
The opportunity presented itself in May of last year when Hang was offered a position at Golden Corral Restaurant on Southside Boulevard as a Utility Attendant. Hang said, “I like having money and I try to save it. Also, I meet new people and learn skills at work.” He also says he fits right into this team. “The people at work are nice and we get along great,” said Hang.
Hang’s job duties include cleaning dishes, placing silverware in small white bags, checking for cleanliness of all items that have been washed, taking out the trash, sweeping, mopping, and restocking plates, cups, and silverware in the dining room.
Hang recently received his one-year service pin that he displays on his work cap. General Manager Lawrence Johnson said, “Simpson is very proud of his service pin. He also received a pay raise.”
Johnson is an exceptional boss. On Hang’s first day of work, Johnson noticed that his shirt did not meet requirements. Even though Golden Corral only provides a cap and apron, Johnson gave Hang a brand new shirt to wear. He also provided some additional work shirts so that Hang’s uniform needs were met.
Kitchen work can be hot, stressful, and demanding. In this particular Golden Corral, it is not uncommon to hear the person who is the Dishwasher begin to sing. Within minutes, the entire kitchen staff begins to sing along. There is friendly teasing and Simpson is a full participant. Coworkers joke with Hang about getting distracted by girls. This couldn’t be farther from the truth as he is focused on his work. When it was Hang’s birthday, Hang’s coworkers sang Happy Birthday to him. Three coworkers each gave him $5 and his boss gave him a free meal.
Hang has a disability and receives assistance from the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD). October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and APD is highlighting the workplace achievements of people with disabilities.
Hang lives with his supportive family in a nice home on the Southside of Jacksonville. They provide his transportation and have been instrumental in doing anything they can to support their son. While Simpson currently works on weekends, he states that he really likes his job because he is now able to contribute to the expenses of his family. When not at work, Hang helps out at home with cooking and cleaning. He also cuts the family’s lawn.
Johnson looks at a job applicant’s strengths and weaknesses when he hires someone. Johnson said “Simpson has found a place that he belongs and it is because of what he brought to the table.”
