Travis has an intellectual disability, and his job coach Sharon has worked with him every day for 15 years. When asked about the early years of working together, she explained, “He had behavioral problems at first, but over time working here has helped him tremendously.” She assists an entire group of Progress clients who work at the Marriott. “When you work here so long, you can’t help but care about our employees,” she explained. Travis and Sharon have a special bond, and it’s obvious she’s proud of his achievements.
Working at the Marriott is only one aspect of services Travis receives through Progress. He also lives in a companion model home with another client. Karla Hall, Program Manager, has managed his care since she started at Progress over six years ago. “Travis a great guy and is always willing to pitch in and help others. He works hard all day then comes home and helps keeps his house clean. He always loves to go to any activity, especially things like WWA Wrestling, Predator and Titans games, Christmas Shows, ICE, and just about any other event going on around Nashville,” she explained. Travis is able to live independently and fully because of supports offered through Progress.
When asked what his favorite part of the job is, Travis smiles and exclaims, “The laundry chute!” Progress is able to assist Travis and others through generous community support. Donna Goodaker, Progress Executive Director notes that, “It is the contribution that people make when they work that makes a community thrive, and those lines should not be drawn around whether a person has a disability or not.”