When Orlando joined the HopeTHRIFT San Jose team one year ago, he was looking for an opportunity to continue building new skills, gain hands-on work experience, and connect with people in the community. Today, he has become a familiar face to customers and donors alike, demonstrating how meaningful employment can create pathways to confidence, growth, and inclusion.

As both a HopeTHRIFT team member and participant in Hope Services’ Community Employment program, Orlando’s journey reflects the transformative power of employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through personalized support, job training, and workplace opportunities, Hope Services helps individuals develop skills, build independence, and pursue meaningful careers that align with their interests and goals.

Before joining HopeTHRIFT, Orlando worked in a filing role at one of Hope Services’ offices. While he enjoyed the experience, he was eager to challenge himself in a position that would allow him to interact with more people and continue developing his workplace skills. HopeTHRIFT provided that opportunity.

Today, Orlando plays an important role supporting donation operations at the San Jose store. His responsibilities include preparing the donation center for the day, organizing incoming donations, assisting with donation intake, and greeting customers as they arrive. Through these daily interactions, Orlando has strengthened his customer service skills and become an important ambassador for both HopeTHRIFT and Hope Services.

One of Orlando’s favorite aspects of the job is the variety each day brings. He especially enjoys seeing the unique items donated by the community, particularly musical instruments, and appreciates the opportunity to meet new people throughout his shift. Over the past year, he has gained confidence in communicating with customers, assisting donors, and creating a welcoming experience for everyone who visits the store.

What makes Orlando’s story especially meaningful is his personal connection to the mission. As someone who has benefited from Hope Services programs, he understands firsthand how employment opportunities can change lives. He often shares with customers and donors how their purchases and donations directly support programs that help individuals with disabilities access employment, community engagement, and opportunities for greater independence.

HopeTHRIFT is more than a thrift store. It is a place where opportunity is created every day. Revenue generated through donations and purchases helps fund Hope Services programs, while the stores themselves provide valuable employment and training opportunities for individuals seeking to gain workplace experience and build careers. Through inclusive employment opportunities like Orlando’s, Hope Services is helping create communities where people of all abilities can contribute, thrive, and reach their full potential.

As Orlando celebrates his first anniversary with HopeTHRIFT San Jose, we recognize not only his hard work and dedication, but also the broader impact of disability inclusion in the workplace. His success is a reminder that when individuals are given the opportunity to contribute their talents, everyone benefits—employees, businesses, customers, and the community as a whole.

Thank you, Orlando, for your positive attitude, commitment to service, and for representing the mission of Hope Services each and every day.