Everyone deserves a job that they can take pride in doing and that satisfies their needs. That’s why the team at Work Opportunities Unlimited (WOU) dedicates their days to helping people find and retain meaningful employment. With support from Career Resource Specialist Breanna Grady and other team members, Todd has the perfect new job at WAWA, a WOU Corporate Partner!
Todd had been supported by WOU since 2022. He previously worked at a retail store before taking some time off to focus on his health. Then in August 2024, Todd was ready to return to the workplace, so he and Breanna began searching for potential jobs in the community. Todd thought that working in a grocery store would be more appealing than retail this time. Breanna explains, “He goes grocery shopping a lot, so Todd feels educated in this area rather than retail where he may not be as familiar with the products and able to help customers.” Breanna helped Todd secure multiple interviews with a local grocery store, but unfortunately, this did not lead to a placement for him. “Todd began getting frustrated at first, as I’m sure everyone would be, but he didn’t let this get him down,” says Breanna. “He became more passionate and motivated than ever to find a job that was a good fit.”
Then in March 2025, Breanna arranged an interview for Todd at WAWA, a popular convenience store and gas station known for its extensive deli and hot prepared foods as well as grab-and-go options. Todd eagerly prepared for his interview and did so well that he was offered the position! Breanna credits the contributions of several other WOU team members who helped secure this successful placement for Todd: Melissa Kremer on the Business Development team, Martin County Director Lisa Jaloski, and Corporate Partnerships Coordinator Amanda Tosoni. Melissa assisted with connecting Breanna with local WAWA managers and setting up company interviews. Lisa helped navigate important conversations with Todd and his mother when the job search process was difficult. Amanda helped troubleshoot some unforeseen delays in the hiring and application process. Thanks to everyone’s assistance, Todd officially began his new role at WAWA in early May 2025.
As a Facilities Assistant, Todd approaches each task with enthusiasm. He greets customers, cleans the restrooms, and tidies up and stocks the coffee bar. He likes that he gets to wear a “cool neon vest” while managing trash in the fuel court. Breanna says, “Todd joked that he never thought he would need a jacket and gloves, working in South Florida, until he felt the cooler where he stocks beverages.” Todd’s managers, Rebekah and Rubiel, as well as his fellow employees, have all welcomed him to the team and ensured he was well-trained and supported from day one. Breanna says, “Rubiel has commented on Todd’s willingness to learn and positive attitude, and said he is just what the team was missing.” Todd has shared with Breanna that WAWA is a great company to work for, citing the perks for part-time employees, like unlimited drinks while on shift and a free sandwich. He enjoys the job so much that he hopes to work there until he retires.
Thanks to his determination to work and the support of WOU team members collaborating to help him realize this goal, Todd is feeling fitter, happier, and more independent. “He’s a few sizes down, so much that he had to purchase a new wardrobe and belts. Todd has also become more positive in general. He loves being out of the house,” says Breanna. “I am so thankful to have such a great team and that we were all able to help Todd with this placement, but ultimately it couldn’t have been done without his hard work and grit! Todd would like to thank everyone and states that he is very happy to be back at work!” With WOU’s help to break down barriers to employment for Todd, he is thriving in his new role. Congratulations, Todd!
