Chris McKinney was a student of our JUMP (Jobs Unique to My Potential) Start employment preparation class at Vision of Hope in Pace. Despite having Down syndrome, McKinney has always wanted to be financially independent and takes pride in making his own money. At our JUMP Start class, he decided his dream job was Whataburger, his favorite fast-food chain. Because of the skills he learned, he was able to sell himself and express his work ethic. He even sent the manager who interviewed him a thank-you email after the interview.
Needless to say, Chris got his dream job at Whataburger, making $13 per hour. “McKinney embodies all the Whataburger philosophies: pride in your work, care for your co-workers, and love for the customers,” said Chris’ manager at Whataburger. “He has done an amazing job of making customers feel welcomed and valued and tending to their needs.”