Despite the lingering Indiana winter, spring is in full bloom at Opportunity Enterprises’ Simply Amazing Market. The pastel-colored chocolate covered marshmallows and festive decorations are a tell-tale sign that the Easter bunny is on his way, and OE participants are hard at work in the market preparing product for the holiday.
Jesse, an OE participant and 2-year market employee, can do every market task, from labeling products to making popcorn to assisting customers. “I really like my job,” Jesse said, “and I try to get my co-workers to try new things like I do.” Jesse’s enthusiasm for teamwork is infectious, and his fellow participants have blossomed alongside him. Ashley has found she has a creative talent for making chocolates and arranging baskets, and Shirley loves doing quality control.
“The demand for our products has increased, especially around holidays like Easter, and we’ve found it helpful to train our participants on all aspects of market production,” said Brenda Kotys, a lead market cashier. “Cross-training also helps them find their niche and become passionate about their work.”
Participants who work in the market benefit from skills training as well as retail experience. As a whole, they are eager to learn new jobs and are supportive of one another on a daily basis.
“At Opportunity Enterprises, we take pride in being a team, and our participants in the market are a great example of this,” said David Stupay, CEO of Opportunity Enterprises. “Seeing them work together so successfully is a demonstration of their hard work as well as the caliber of our market staff who support them.”
Anyone interested in visiting the Simply Amazing Market should save the date for their Easter Open House on Saturday, April 12th from 10am-3pm. There will be free photos with the Easter Bunny and many delicious treats available for purchase.