As part of our on-going series highlighting Anthesis participants, we had a chat with Andrew G. He took time out of his busy day to speak with us about his work with Anthesis, his likes, his job, his hobbies, and his hopes for the future.
So, here’s our conversation with Andrew!
Hello. Thank you so much for chatting with us today. Can you tell us about your current job?
I am part of the job development program and community-based program. I have a job coach that comes to my work to help me out. I work at Stater Bros as a Courtesy Clerk. I have worked there for almost two years. My favorite part of the job is interacting with customers.
What do you enjoy about the community-based program here at Anthesis?
In the community-based program, I can go on fun outings, like museums, miniature golf, and the movies.
I love museums! I’m glad to hear that you enjoy your current job. But, what’s your dream job?
I would like to be an advocate for people with disabilities.
That’s really cool—me too! What’s your favorite thing about being a part of Anthesis?
Being able to socialize and learning different skills.
We all have chores we have to do— every day. But sometimes they can be enjoyable. For example, I like to cook. What’s your favorite chore?
Taking care of my pets. I have four dogs: 2 pugs, 1 bulldog, and 1 basset hound.
I just have one cat, but he eats a lot, so it’s like having a tiny lion living in my house. But 4 dogs? Wow. You must be pretty busy, Andrew.
Yes. But it’s fun, too.
Absolutely. So, what kind of music do you like?
Broadway or Country.
Oooo, I love show tunes, too! I’m so excited to meet another Broadway fan. What’s your favorite musical?
My favorite musical is Newsies. It’s great.
Newsies is such a good show! I completely agree. I had tickets to see the show once, but I got sick, and I couldn’t go. I was so disappointed that I actually cried.
I bet!
Anyway, next question… When is your birthday?
My birthday is on May 1st. I just turned 28.
When it’s your birthday, what do you want for dessert?
Cheesecake!
That’s a solid choice. What’s your favorite color?
Blue
What’s your favorite food?
Pasta and sandwiches.
I love sandwiches. It’s the perfect lunch. So, what are your favorite restaurants?
Jersey Mike’s. I spend about $200 at Jersey Mike’s every month. My order is either Chicken Bacon Ranch or Chipotle Chicken.
Again, yum. You have very good taste. Although, I think Jersey Mike’s needs to throw you a free sandwich from time to time. You’re a very good customer, after all.
Yes. And I don’t get the small sandwiches.
For sure. Because that would be a waste, clearly.
Yes. It’s probably why I spent $200 a month.
Ha! Indeed. Okay, next question…what’s your favorite movie?
Man in the Iron Mask or Sweeney Todd
Okay, those are also great choices. Have you seen The Three Musketeers? You’d like that one, I think.
Yes! I love it.
I think we should compare video streaming lists. We’d have a lot in common. Anyway, what are your favorite hobbies?
Puzzles, 3D Printing, Karaoke
What is your favorite place that you’ve visited?
Jamaica. I enjoyed the culture and atmosphere. We went zip lining through the forest.
Wow! That sounds amazing. Do you have any plans for the summer that you’re looking forward to?
I will be going to Chicago for a Chicago Bears and San Francisco 49ers football game.
That will be fun.
I’m so excited.
I bet! I would be, too. Any other plans this summer?
For the 4th of July, I will going to SeaWorld.
How fun! SeaWorld is so cool. One last question, if you could tell our readers one thing about Anthesis, what would you want them to know?
That Anthesis helps people with disabilities to find jobs. Anthesis helps people during the job process and provides job coaches to help individuals do their best at their jobs.
Thank you so much for chatting with us today. We appreciate it. Have fun in Chicago— you’ll have to tell us all about it when you get back!
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Want to support our work with participants like Andrew? Please consider donating to our Summer Appeal! With your help, we can continue to provide community-based educational excursions to all participants in Anthesis’ programs.: https://anthesis.salsalabs.org/summerappeal2022/index.html
To learn more about the workings of Anthesis’s programs, and how you can collaborate with participants in the employment programs, please reach out to: Terri Perkins at terri@anthesis.us or 909-624-3555 x243.