Amy's Meaningful New Job As A Giant Eagle Bagger

After working on the packaging at a grocery store for nearly eight years, Amy discovered her store would be closing its doors. Determined to find her next meaningful role, Amy began working with LEAP's Employment Services in May 2024, where she was paired with Employment Specialist Tonya Goodrum.

Experiences Before LEAP

Before turning to LEAP, Amy worked with "other providers who weren't very successful." Amy explained that she had almost gotten some jobs with other providers, but none of them offered meaningful employment. However, Amy says LEAP was different.

LEAP's Employment Services Stood Out

Amy says LEAP is "better than a lot of places." She explained that, unlike the other services, Tonya wasn't rushing to find her a job, but was determined to find her something she actually wanted. Throughout each step of the process, Tonya supported Amy to ensure she was in the best position when applying for the jobs she wanted:

• Résumé Support: Tonya worked with Amy to update her résumé for the types of jobs she is interested in applying for.
• Community-Based Assessments (CBAs): To better understand Amy's likes and dislikes, as well as her skills, Tonya had her complete CBAs. Through these assessments, Amy discovered she liked bagging the best and disliked stocking shelves.
• Phone Meetings: Tonya and Amy had regular phone meetings to work on Amy's employment goals.
• Applying: The two of them worked on applications together, even as they evaluated whether job postings would be the correct fit for Amy.
• Evaluating Offers: Tonya supported Amy with evaluating different offers as needed.
  
  

As Amy submitted her applications, she received various offers. Yet as she evaluated each one, she realized some of them would not be the correct fit for her. For example, the Cleveland Browns first offered her a ticket-taking position. However, the hours and location were not the right fit for Amy. Instead of encouraging her to take the job, Tonya continued to support her with applications.

Landing The Perfect Job at Giant Eagle

Later on, she received an offer from the Giant Eagle in Rocky River for a position as a bagger. Living in Olmstead Falls, she was a little surprised by the location, with the store being 20 minutes away. Yet, she is happy with her new role.

"I love it," says Amy, when asked how she likes working at Giant Eagle. She explained she just loves being around people and the environment. Amy went on to share that the staff look out for each other, and the customers are friendly, often coming up to her, saying, "It was great to see you!"

Although Amy landed the perfect role at Giant Eagle, she continued to receive support from LEAP's Employment Services after accepting the offer.

Job Coaching

As Amy adjusted to the new role, Diana Manning, one of LEAP's Program Support Specialists, supported her as a Job Coach.

Wheelchair Lift Adaptation

Amy's Employment team noticed her wheelchair didn't lift to counter level, making it more challenging to bag groceries. Determined to set Amy up for success, Tonya worked with Amy and her insurance to add a lift adaptation to Amy's wheelchair. This adaptation allows Amy to bag groceries more efficiently and effectively.

Overall, Amy is satisfied with her experience working with LEAP and her new role at Giant Eagle.

Congratulations, Amy! We are so proud of all of your hard work.