Chris

Chris, 29, is a literature-loving athlete and barista, shown here at his cafe job prior to the Covid-19 outbreak. He prepared cold drinks at A Special Blend as a "cold barista" and had recently become qualified as a "hot barista." His mother Virginia says, "He loves A Special Blend. Even though he struggles with his stuttering, he just loves being around people." Inclusive hiring practices have historically proved beneficial to not only the employees, but also to the businesses hiring them. Visiting a place of this kind makes it immediately clear why inclusive workplace models are gaining popularity across the United States—it’s a uniquely uplifting experience.

Chris now lives in Greensboro, North Carolina, but previously lived in Connecticut— and four other states prior to that! His family spent many of their weekends by the water, so much so that Virginia says that "as soon as he could walk, he was sailing." He also can count softball, golf, basketball, and football among his skills, and is currently learning to play tennis. Special Olympics provided each of these opportunities.

When not practicing, Chris collects baseball cards, listens to music—classical, rap, pop, and everything in between!—and loves to read. Among his favorites have been the 45-50 autobiographies he has read. Wow!

A year and a half ago, Chris transitioned to group home living, and has since experienced some changes to his routine. Because of the pandemic, Chris missed seeing his parents in person for nearly 6 months, and has not spent as much time outside the home. He participates in an online Bible study meeting, plays puzzles, cooks, and watches sports on tv with the other residents, but misses his work at A Special Blend. Chris is just one example of the kind of fulfillment an inclusive workplace can bring to members of the Down Syndrome community and larger intellectual and developmental disability community. We’re hoping for health and wellness as they await their return to these remarkable places of work. Check out our friends at Inclusively and Delivering Jobs for more information about inclusive hiring