Employ 50 individuals with Disabilities in Texas

Building Confidence and Independence: Josh’s Journey with Best Buddies and Beyond

How It All Started

Josh, a sophomore at Rockwall-Heath High School, was introduced to Best Buddies through Amber, who has been an essential support for both Josh and his father, Scott. Amber not only shared information about the different programs available but also connected the family with the Texas Workforce Commission to explore employment opportunities.

Getting to Work

Three days a week, after school, Josh heads to his job at Shenaniganz, a local arcade and entertainment venue. There, he takes pride in setting up and cleaning the arcade games. One of his favorite tasks is inflating the balls and placing them into the claw machine. He enjoys being part of the “behind-the-scenes” magic of the arcade.

Support That Made a Difference

George, the Best Buddies jobs coach working with Josh, played a key role in helping him grow into the job. “At first, Josh was hesitant,” says Scott. “It was unfamiliar territory.” But George helped ease him in, encouraging Josh to try a little more and stay a little longer each time. Eventually, Josh began to build confidence.

George realized that Josh loved to speak in Disney movie quotes. He surprised Josh one day by answering in a different Disney movie quote. From that moment forward, that shared interest helped Josh feel more comfortable and open up, building trust and a strong rapport.

A Family Perspective

The experience hasn’t just been eye-opening for Josh. It’s impacted his father too.

“I’m learning a lot as well,” says Scott. “George is super confident and seems very knowledgeable. Not only is Josh learning from him, but I’m learning what I can do for Josh. It’s been really helpful.”

Looking Ahead

The family is excited about Josh’s growth through Best Buddies and the job program. “We’re working on building Josh’s independence,” Scott shares. “The goal is for him to be gainfully employed - not just to enjoy himself, but like everyone else, go to work, continue learning, and maximize his potential. This has been a big step in that direction.”

Josh has even started thinking about future goals. One dream job? Target. “He loves organizing,” Scott says. “If he sees something out of place on a clothes rack, he has to fix it.”

What Inclusion Looks Like

Scott reflects on the importance of workplace inclusion: “Josh is starting to understand expectations. He has a role, responsibilities, and he’s earning money. He’s learning what it means to be accountable.”

From Hesitation to Routine

Josh’s journey has been marked by noticeable transformation. “He used to not want to go to work,” says Scott. “But now it’s part of his routine, a normal part of life. And we’re excited to keep expanding that, to make work a bigger, fulfilling part of his day.”