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Success Stories

Tallahassee Woman Spreads Goodwill

Debra McMillan has been employed for most of her adult life. For the more than two years, she has worked in customer service at a Goodwill Industries store in Tallahassee. Florida's Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is sharing inspiring stories about Floridians like McMillan during October, which is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. McMillan is diagnosed with cerebral palsy. She uses a wheelchair and has a speech impairment.

According to Julie Bailey, the store's assistant manager, McMillan works with clothing merchandise, taking it on and off hangers and keeping it organized.

"She's fantastic," Bailey boasted. "Debra's very dedicated---one of our hardest workers. She's always here when she needs to be, and hardly ever misses work."

Work has proved to be a positive experience for McMillan. Socializing on the job has helped her to lead a more active role in her community. She advocates for herself and for others with special needs---inspiring her co-workers along the way.

"She's more open and outgoing than she used to be when she came here," Bailey said. "She has great relationships with co-workers." Naturally, her growth and development have meant improvement on the job, especially in dealing with customers.

"Debra is great with customer service," Bailey said. "She's always willing and able to help customers."

"I love my job!" McMillan exclaimed. "I meet different people, and it's always good!"

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 www.apdcares.org or call toll-free 1- 866-APD-CARES (1-866-273-2273).

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