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“I go out and find opportunities for our Patrons to work
–which may mean driving around one day and going in and
out of as many businesses as I can to introduce myself and
take them informational material about our work program,
or cold-calling potential employers,” said Walker. “It’s a big
deal to me to be the eyes and ears for these individuals and to
advocate for them and their abilities, rather than their
disabilities, when they cannot.”
In addition to helping find work opportunities, SON
Valley’s job employment program assists Patrons in learning
about good financial management, job etiquette, how to
assemble a resume, mock interview training, and work attire.
At the heart of all the prep, what they ultimately want is to
help integrate these individuals into their communities.
“We want for people to see adults that are different from
them—adults with intellectual disabilities or even physical
disabilities out working in their communities and being an
active part of their community, not just sitting at home,” said
Bill McCormack, executive director at SON Valley. “This
program is important to me because it helps society integrate
these adults into their businesses and community and not
just leave them to sit on the sidelines. It is all of our jobs to
do that.”
While the benefits of the job employment program are
many, perhaps the most profound is the impact it has on a
Patrons’ self-esteem. “The vocational program teaches our
Patrons how to look more at the long-term instead of the
short-term, and it gets them into a daily routine, which they
benefit from just like the rest of us,” said Walker. “It also
gives them a purpose and a boost because they get a paycheck
and see that this is something they earned; they see that they
are doing what their peers, friends, and family members are
doing. In a way, it empowers them.”
Although each employment arrangement is different,
depending on the availability of the Patron and what a business
may need, the most common arrangement is part-time.
Currently, SON Valley Patrons work at Mazzio’s, McAlister’s,
Chick-fil-A, Zaxby’s, Musee, Books-a-Million, Magnolia
Beauty School, Malco, Primos, Babalu, Corner Bakery,
McDonald’s, Popeye’s, Burger King, Penn’s, and Two Men
& A Truck.
If you are interested in potentially employing a SON Valley Patron,
Danny Walker would love to talk with you. Call 601-856-3200 or
daw@sonvalley.net
“WHAT’S WRONG
WITH EATING STEAK
ON THANKSGIVING?
- - TURKEY TOM
FREE REG. FRESH-CUT
FRIES AND SOFT DRINK
WITH PURCHASE OF ANY REGULAR SUB
Valid at Flowood, Brandon, Northpark Mall and Madison Steak Escape
locations only. Cannot be used with any other discount or offer.
One coupon per person per visit. Expires 11/30/18.
76 • November 2018