Every day is a miracle
Paul's mom feared her son, who has an intellectual disability, would never find work. Three years later, he's full-time with benefits.
“Every day that he has a job is a miracle to me.”
Paul Cox came to Bridges in the Fall of 2020 via Grapevine High School, in Texas. Although he had volunteer work experience, this would be his first chance at a paid position.
His mom, Heather, feared her son, who has an intellectual disability, would never be able to get a job. Paul's Bridges Senior Youth Employment Specialist coached him through job readiness training — building his resume, interview prep, how to research jobs, how to follow up with employers.
Paul applied to a few opportunities and didn't get them, but never got discouraged. When the Michaels Manufacturing Facility was hiring, he almost didn't apply because he was convinced another role would come through. His Youth Employment Specialist wisely suggested he apply anyway. He prepped a virtual interview with his teacher and was hired full-time as a Production Team Member.
Paul was nervous about starting a new job but worked hard to adjust. He even took on seasonal overtime hours the next year to help his team. He enjoys helping his coworkers by removing trash and supporting them across the various teams.
His HR manager, Lauren Tarpley, puts it: "Paul is a great asset to our team. He is always open to lending a helpful hand, encouraging others, and going the extra step to complete his work with excellence. No matter how hard the day is and how busy the work is, Paul takes the time to greet you with a smile. Most of all, Paul gives the best movie recommendations. He hasn't recommended a bad one yet!"
Paul has now passed his fourth year at Artistree, the Michaels subsidiary in Grapevine. Heather wrote in a testimonial to Bridges: "Every day that he has a job is a miracle to me."
Stories like this happen because of partnership.
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