For those of us who love a good chicken sandwich, Chick-fil-A is the place to go. If you don’t go there for the chicken sandwich, maybe you go there for the hilarious cow graphics. If that doesn’t bring a smile to you face then well… hopefully this does.
Since Chick-fil-A opened its doors at River Park in 2013, it has been committed to serving the Fresno community in one very important way: by employing individuals living with disabilities.
As anyone who has ever eaten at Chick-fil-A knows, the company holds itself to the highest quality of service both in how they prepare and serve their food. Management trains their employees consistently, which is evident in their service delivery. Employees who live with a disability are held to the same standard at all times. Their performance is scrutinized in the same way, and their accomplishments are celebrated along with those of their peers.
Independence a goal in employment
Most people would never know that Celina Fernandez lives with a disability. She carries out her job duties in full, assists customers when needed, and always has a smile on her face. Vocation Plus Connections, Inc. supports Celina in reaching her goals, which include maintaining her job and becoming independent. But while she may receive services from VPCI, Celina’s performance is a result of the support and training she has received from Chick-fil-A management.
Marketing Director Kailey Lanier is not surprised by the positive performance of Celina, who has worked at Chick-fil-A since shortly after they opened their doors. “Celina is hard working, caring, and provides great customer service” says Kailey. When asked how her experience has been working with individuals living with disabilities she states, “they are just like anyone else and deserve a chance to work.”
Kailey is quick to remind people that “you may think someone living with a disability can’t do what ‘normal people’ can, but they can, and they do.” She has not only seen this at our local Chick-fil-A but in other locations throughout the nation.
So, if you are looking for a good meal, some progressive chicken humor, and a chance to support a business that supports individuals living with a disability, visit Chick-fil-A in River Park.
FYI, they are always looking for great people to join their team, so stop by and pick up an application!
- The Connections Project breaks down barriers between adults living with disabilities and law enforcement - February 13, 2018
- Chick-fil-A is not just about the chicken - October 12, 2017
Leave a Reply