OE’s Simply Amazing Market, located at the agency’s main facility in Valparaiso, employs twelve adults with disabilities who are involved in all aspects of market operations. Some clients specialize in labeling and packaging products, while others help produce the store’s two main product lines - Simply Amazing Gourmet Fudge, and Simply Amazing Gourmet Popcorn.
One of those clients, Jesse Eurick of Hebron, is the only client who is able to independently make popcorn from start to finish. Like the other individuals who work in the market, Jesse started by learning to label and package popcorn, fudge, and bagged candies. Soon, though, it became obvious he was capable of doing more, and told his supervisor he wanted to learn to make popcorn. Jesse began assisting OE staff members when they made popcorn, and slowly but surely, began completing the steps himself as a staff member looked on. Now, once he is told what kind of popcorn he needs to make, Jesse can complete the entire process by himself with minimal supervision.
While Jesse has worked in the market for about a year, he has held other jobs, including positions in the community which he obtained through OE’s JobSource program. His work experience has included being a cart attendant at Target, working as a dishwasher at Gelsosomo’s Pizza in Crown Point, and working in OE’s Secure Shred division. Jesse excelled in all of those jobs, and his strong work ethic and positive attitude make him a wonderful employee.
“Jesse was a ray of sunshine every day,” said Stephanie Anderson, owner of Gelsosomo’s Pizza in Crown Point. “He was always happy, loved to joke around with other employees, and was always smiling. We really miss him.”
Although he has enjoyed all his jobs, Jesse likes working in the market best, and hopes to continue to learn to do more things, including making fudge, stocking shelves, helping customers, and even running the register.
When he’s not working, Jesse enjoys spending time with his family, including his mom, two brothers, and one sister, and playing with his cat Misty.
Jesse’s supervisor in the market, Bobbi Kundly, absolutely loves working with Jesse, and is extremely proud of what he’s learned. She looks forward to teaching him to do everything he’s interested in learning, and knows he is capable of learning lots of new things.
“All of our clients in the market are wonderful – I’ve got the coolest job in the world. Jesse is truly amazing, even when he’s giving me a hard time and hiding my scissors!” laughs Kundly.
The Simply Amazing Market is located at 2801 Evans Avenue in Valparaiso, and is open to the public Monday – Friday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Customers can save 10% on featured flavors each month. For July, flavors include watermelon fudge and banana split popcorn. In addition to a large selection of gourmet fudge, popcorn, and candies, the market features ceramics hand-painted by OE clients, as well as personalized party favors for any special occasion. Call (219) 464-9621, ext. 289 for more information.
Since 1967, OE has been a non-profit organization which creates sustainable life choices and opportunities for individuals with unique challenges and abilities. Today, OE serves 1,100 adults and children with disabilities in Porter County and throughout Northwest Indiana. For more information, visit www.oppent.org.
Photo: OE Client Jesse Eurick making caramel corn in the agency’s Simply Amazing Market