Posted 3/3/2023
In honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, Merakey IDD in Philadelphia highlights a special individual receiving services. Maurice resides in a group home and also receives Supported Employment services through the IDD Philadelphia division. Over the years, he has worked in food service and retail, but neither industry was the right fit for him. His goal was to work in a setting with a casual, fun atmosphere in which his playful nature and sense of humor would be an asset to the employer. In August 2022, with the help of a Merakey Employment Training Specialist, Maurice secured his dream job at Chuck E. Cheese. Maurice works four days per week as both Chuckie the Greeter and as a custodian cleaning tables, taking out trash, and sanitizing areas to keep everyone safe. His most favorite responsibility is being Chuckie the Greeter.
When asked how things are going at work, Maurice replied, “I love seeing the kids come toward me with a big smile wanting to meet Chuckie.” The management team at Chuck E. Cheese has shared with Merakey that Maurice is perfect in his role as Chuckie and is always offering to help with other tasks as needed throughout his shift. Maurice, Merakey, his employer, and kids throughout Philadelphia hope he has a long and happy career at Chuck E. Cheese!
