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Everywhere we look there are jobs that must be done.
For some these jobs may seem to simple
to set out and hire an individual to do them.
Others may think the tasks are unnecessary.
But as it is for thousands of Nevadan's today
They need work. And for a fraction of these thousands
These jobs will change their lives forever.
I've been proud of myself for doing this
and I find it more happiness.
I enjoy being here. Stacy is a
Thirty-seven year old, who like many Nevadans has had to endure
through personal hardships and struggles throughout much of her life.
But for her, each day brings a different kind of battle.
Stacy lives with an intellectual disability.
More importantly, she also lives with an
unimaginable sense of optimism.
She is just happy and fun and full of joy day in and day out.
What really stands out is when she learns something
that I will teach her from a previous time
And know exactly how to do it the next day.
Happiness, outgoing, and a powerful positive outlook on life.
All three are characteristics that most wish to find
in their lifetime. With every rinse of a glass,
and sweep of a broom, these elements arise
from the moment Stacy's presence is met at work.
And its a presence felt by everyone around her.
She has a fantastic attitude and it spreads like a wildfire
In any store that I'm sure if she were to go anywhere
she's just so upbeat and positive, why not have that.
Stacy's attitude is one shared and loved by her coworkers.
But it's through the work she accomplishes that has them astonished.
I thought my role was going to be more to
have to guide her constantly.
And thats not so much the case.
Once she learns a task, she is totally able to do it on her own.
Which allows me to do even more. Stacy does all the support work for us
which keeps us going all day. The everyday tasks for Stacy
are essential to the daily success of the coffee shop.
Responsibilities that she takes great pride and satisfaction in
every moment of everyday.
Yet, with each bit of more responsibility comes privilege.
When you had first got your paycheck, that you took your boyfriend out
on a date? Yes, of course!
How was that?
It was good. And Rick is also more supportive of me.
And he's very proud.
After three months have passed since her first day at the coffee shop
Stacy has exceeded the professional expectations of those around her
and continues to push the limits of success even higher
with each minute she works. Yet, above all else
she has built unbreakable friendships with those who see
her smiling optimism each day.
We walked to the bus stop for thirty minutes and we talk about
life. We talk about parents, what's going on, our animals we have
boyfriends, everything about life.
There was one day, actually like the second day,
that I first started working with Stacy, that it got really busy.
I had to help out on the floor, making drinks.
And I jus said to Stacy, you know what if you are fine on your own
I would like you to sweep and throw the trash, and you know what
She did it and comes back with a smile on her face and she goes
Matt, I'm ready for the next thing.
As Nevadans look toward the future there is not telling what it will hold for them.
But, as Stacy and others like her, can show us that with each day's passing
we can continue to work towards our strengths and believe
that with the right attitude and perseverance our dreams can always be accomplished.
This project would not be possible without