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Niceville Woman Has an Eye for Detail

NICEVILLE, FL -Christine Loveland is progressing in her second career in an arts and crafts store. The Niceville woman does her job very well, even though it means focusing on small details such as the fine print on merchandise labels. During October, which is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Florida's Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is putting the spotlight on Floridians like Loveland who have careers and fulfilling lives.

Loveland, who is diagnosed with a cognitive disability, had been bagging groceries for over six years. Despite being self-motivated and willing to work, she was not satisfied with the job and wanted something different---she dreamed of a career in arts and crafts. With the supported employment assistance she receives from APD through Work Opportunities, a service provider based in Pensacola, she was able to get a job at a Michael's store in Destin. It's a perfect match.

"Christine has been working here for over a year," says Mona Rowe, the store's assistant manager. "She's a self-starter. She's not the kind of person that you have to follow around to make sure she's doing things right. Christine is good with customers and everybody likes her. She's like our little sister."

As a customer service stockperson, Loveland unpacks merchandise, stocks the shelves, and maintains inventory records. Her inventory work is praised by managers as the best the store has ever had.

"Christine is extremely detail-oriented," says Rowe. "That's why we love her!"

Loveland has shown initiative in wanting to grow in her new career. She has begun taking training to be a cashier, and on the weekends she even teaches art classes to children.

"Christine's story should be heard," says Tara Crawford, her supported employment coach. "It's a prime example of what can happen when you focus on one's abilities."

APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn, and work in their communities. For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit apd.myflorida.com or call toll-free 1-866-APD-CARES (1-866-273-2273).

REMINDER FOR MEDIA---When reporting on stories about people with disabilities, remember to use language that puts the person first, rather than the disability. For example, use phrases such as "persons with disabilities" (instead of "the disabled") and "person who uses a wheelchair" (rather than "wheelchair bound").