Junk-Atique Outlet is a local nonprofit thrift store raising funds for Resurrection Church. We sat down to talk to supervisors Lisa and Jenifer about their experience partnering with ITG. Bridges participant Patty recently interned here for a month, and according to Lisa and Jenifer, she brought a warm and positive spirit to the workplace.
Lisa Givens has been the general manager for over three years at Junk-Atique, and has seen many interns come through the doors. Lisa shared with us that she noticed a difference between ITG and other programs through the coach/intern relationship. Instead of the disconnect she sometimes sees between job coaches and interns, Patty and her coach Ellie’s relationship is one of genuine care and connection.
Jenifer Britton has been working at Junk-Atique for over two years where she uses her background in merchandising to do something she feels has more purpose. Jenifer explained to us that she often sees other job coaches who advocate for their interns, but she was delighted to see that Patty was able and confident in advocating for herself with the support of her job coach.
Jenifer was amazed by Patty’s confidence and willingness to be open, allowing people to get to know her with a charismatic attitude. And she made such an impact on the team at Junk-Atique that they surprised her with Donald Duck, her favorite character, at the end of her internship!
“It’s such an amazing program, I think it’s so cool because again we’re focusing on what they’re capable of doing and not [what] limitations exist….
I think that what you guys provide to Patty and everybody else that’s a part of that program is definitely helping them to gain independence, to gain skills, [and] so much more than the skills.” Jenifer goes on to describe how she’s able to see Patty for who she is because that’s how she presented herself to be, with confidence and an open attitude.
“Even Patty being comfortable enough to invite us to check out your program--it made me feel special.” Acknowledging that they invited Patty into their world, she was pleasantly surprised that Patty felt comfortable and confident enough to invite Lisa and Jenifer to see the behind the scenes of her own world back at ITG.
Noting that Patty's positive experience is likely due to ITG's faith-based approach, Jenifer said,
“You can tell you have good people around you when you’re able to shine like that.”
We are thankful for partners like Junk-Atique for providing opportunities for our participants to gain work experience. If you are interested in partnering with us, visit itgfoundation.org/get-involved
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