SUBMITTED BY THE Logan County BOARD OF DD
Celebrated in October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the ongoing effort to ensure that individuals with disabilities are afforded access to rewarding job opportunities all year-round.
This week, the Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities is honoring Justin Ashford, a dedicated member of the Walmart team since July 2021.
Working around 20 hours per week, his primary focus is the apparel department, where he collects, sorts and organizes returns. He also helps with changing displays, updating end caps, and completing seasonal transitions by replacing clothing on tables and updating pricing.
Justin’s hard work and eagerness to learn have made him a valued team member, his fellow employees related. He often asks managers if he can take on new tasks, and he recently began answering the phone in the apparel department — something he initially hadn’t thought he would want to do.
His skill with electronics has also made him the go-to person for co-workers needing help with the handheld scanner, mastering a task that typically takes months to learn.
When asked what he enjoys most about Walmart, Justin said, “I like that the other employees appreciate my hard work and are willing to help when I need it.”
His biggest challenge has been adjusting to the variety and changing tasks of each day, but he has worked hard to adapt. Justin considers his biggest success maintaining consistent employment over the past four years through many ups and downs.
Looking ahead, Justin hopes to learn to use the cash register and eventually explore opportunities in other departments at Walmart.
This article is part of a series highlighting National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) to recognize the contributions of workers with disabilities and to showcase inclusive workplaces in our community.
Are you an employer looking for motivated, reliable employees to join your team? Contact the Logan County Board of DD at (937) 592-0015 to learn how we can connect you with talented individuals like Justin.
