Our Landscaping & Grounds Maintenance team serves the Defense Supply Center Richmond and Fort Gregg-Adams— and they never have a slow day. From mowing to leaf blowing, and from planting flowers to shoveling snow, the crew of 22 full-time employees is busy year-round.

Deborah Foster loves managing this team, which includes 17 employees with disabilities. “I appreciate everything our employees do, and I am so proud of how much they achieve,” says Deb.

“Everyone’s needs are a little different and providing customized training is important to us.” This might mean using repetition, offering different styles of instruction, providing special equipment, or letting someone work in a slightly different way.

Sometimes, Deb calls in SOAR365’s internal job coach, who can develop a plan to address any issues. Deb also meets with employees’ family members to work together on solutions.

Deb has learned that one of the most important accommodations she can make is pairing crew members with the right leader. “Some of them need a crew leader who is strong, loud, and firm to stay focused and motivated. Others need a crew leader who is quiet, calm, and gentle so they don’t get overwhelmed or frustrated,” Deb explains. “Finding that correct balance is crucial to the success of the team.”

Deb is proud of her employees who have overcome challenges to succeed in the workplace, like Patrick. When he was first hired more than 10 years ago, he struggled, but over time, he became professional, punctual and reliable. A few years ago, Deb encouraged Patrick to step into the role of crew leader. Deb explained the role using pictures, descriptive phrases, and lots of reassurance…and he’s excelled.

“The best part is that Patrick, who has a disability, is now supervising people with disabilities,” says Deb. “We are training him to be a good coach and a good leader.”

To learn more about employment opportunities for people with disabilities, visit soar365.org/business-solutions.