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Annie loves her job and her joy is evident as she expresses, “It really makes me happy.”
She is always busy making sure that the customers who stop by the Janus Capabilities Café at the Hamilton County Government and Judicial Center enjoy their visit. As Capabilities Café team members, Annie and her co-workers provide excellent customer service as they prepare food, greet people, operate the cash register, and keep the Café clean.
Annie Ketchum at the Janus Capabilities Café. (Photo by Bryon Settles / Provided by Janus)
Chris Hawkins, Capabilities Café Team Leader, said, “Everyone seems to really adore Annie. Her energy and positivity are amazing assets to the Café. People really enjoy talking to her.”
Finding a job is often a challenge for people with developmental disabilities. It is estimated that over 80 percent are either under-employed or not working at all. Learning new skills that may lead to jobs is an important goal for Janus clients. The Capabilities Café program enables participants to learn food safety and preparation skills, customer service and the many important tasks that enable the Café to run smoothly.
The Janus Capabilities Café opened in 1992 as a result of a concept developed by Janus and Hamilton County officials. Located on the lower level of the Government Center, the Café is open from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on weekdays. Over the years, the Café has provided numerous Janus clients with the opportunity to gain skilled food services experience and be employed.
Each day, the Café and its staff increase awareness about the value that hiring people with disabilities can bring to a business. As Annie reflects on her job and how it has impacted her, tears fill her eyes as she says with emotion, “My life is doing better now … working here.”