When someone says Gasoline Alley Harley-Davidson, the first thing that normally comes to mind would be rumbling motorbikes and lots of leather — however, our local hog dealership is changing that with their emphasis on supporting community.
Not only does the shop give back to its patrons by hosting various fun and philanthropic events, but they also provide workplace opportunity, free of discrimination.
For the last few years, Gasoline Alley and Pathways Abilities Society have made quite the connection thanks to the impressive work ethic and positive attitude of their employee Eric.
“He is just an absolute delight, and brings such good morale to this place,” said Kerri Scebba, Administrative Assistant for Gasoline Alley.
Eric works on Tuesday mornings for three hours, cleaning the popcorn machine, tidying up the merchandise, and gathering the recyclables, tasks that to some may seem menial but ones that he takes great pride in.
“He loves to work and is one of our hardest working employees. He is part of our team, an integral part of our team, and it would be hard if he wasn't here,” said Scebba.
Although Eric is only in the shop one day a week, according to Scebba his infectious positivity has a long-lasting impact on company morale.
“He is just a really kind soul, and it is nice to have that kind of energy around because some days you are just in a really bad mood, and then Eric will come in and ask for a hug and it just grounds you.”
Not only has Eric been a reliable team member for those who work with him, but according to Scebba, his work ethic and attitude make him a great example as to why businesses should consider hiring individuals with diversabilities.
“Honestly, a lot of people don’t hire adults like Eric, and he is an excellent worker. As a society, I think we need to take away the stigma and accept people for who they are and what they bring to the table,” says Scebba.
“It gives him an opportunity to feel like he is a part of our community. It is a win-win, you know what I mean? We are helping Eric and he is helping us. It is a really supportive thing for the community and that is what we are all about here.”
This our eleventh instalment of Heroes of Diversability, which is a series highlighting businesses around Kelowna who have partnered up with Pathways to employ an individual with a 'diversability.'
Pathways Abilities Society is a non-profit organization providing services to individuals with diverse abilities in the Central Okanagan for over 60 years.
Among the services it provides, Pathways connects local progressive businesses with individuals with diverse abilities, developing customized employment programs that put diverse abilities to work in our community.
If you get value from KelownaNow and believe local independent media is important to our community we ask that you please consider subscribing to our daily newsletter.
If you appreciate what we do, we ask that you consider supporting our local independent news platform.
