When Travis clocks in for his shift at TJ Maxx, he gets right to work. He knows where everything is in the back, what needs to be sorted, and what needs to be brought out to the shoe displays.
“He’s grown a lot,” said Community Job Coach Tanga Gary. “When he first started, he needed a lot of help. Now, he can do it with his eyes closed.”
Travis has become such a reliable employee that he works 5 days a week. The store depends on him to keep the shoe department running efficiently. For Travis’s mom, Missy, hearing that her son is not only working but helping to run the department is extraordinary.
“I never would have thought that he would be able to maintain a job at a retail place like TJ Maxx, and now he’s doing such a remarkable job there,” said Missy. “I can tell he’s very happy there.”
Travis has been at Eden Autism since he was 21 months old, first joining the early intervention at Wawa House. He graduated from the Eden School, joined the Adult Services Day program, began working, and moved into an Eden residence.
Today, Travis is a busy man. He loves arts and crafts, and he can often be found wearing his homemade jewelry. From bowling to a trip to the store, he loves being in the community.
“It’s inspiring,” said Missy. “People tell me all the time they look forward to seeing what Travis does. People respond with such joy when they see Travis and all the things he’s up to. He has a natural ability to bring out the best in people.”
Travis isn’t just busy with activities; he also makes connections and impressions with those around him. Often when Missy is out with Travis, they’ll run into current and former Eden staff members who are excited to see Travis.
“It’s wonderful. I can’t put into words how privileged and honored we are to know our son is so well loved,” she said.