“I wanted to work in the lumber yard; that’s how it all began,” says Robbie Jones. “When I lived in Bay St. Louis (Mississippi), I helped a guy who remodeled houses. I used to help him pick up wood, plywood, and stuff at Home Depot. I’ve never actually worked in the lumber yard, but I’ve been at Home Depot 19 years.”
Saint Francis Ministries’ Bridgeway program is unique among all the programs and services we offer because it’s the only one that serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Located in Picayune, Mississippi, Bridgeway is designed to help persons with IDD live as independently and engaged with the community as possible.
Bridgeway is foremost, an apartment complex with 24 units. Residents receive round-the-clock support, with amenities such as an exercise room, laundry facilities, and wellness programs. They enjoy the autonomy of living in their own apartment while enjoying access to recreational facilities and a variety of social activities that foster a strong sense of community and belonging.
But that’s not all. Bridgeway is all about human dignity, and meaningful, fulfilling work is just one way we honor that dignity. Bridgeway’s Supported Employment program helps residents secure jobs within the community, providing essential services such as job seeking, on-the-job support, and transportation. Picayune staff members focus on ensuring meaningful employment and continuous growth, offering training and development assistance to foster success in their chosen careers.
Bridgeway also prioritizes personal growth through Job Discovery Services, offering support in volunteer opportunities, resume building, and interview skills. Bridgeway aims to empower residents with the confidence and tools needed for self-advocacy and successful job market navigation, enhancing community involvement.
Robbie knows all about Bridgeway because he’s been a resident for 20 years, and he’s participated in the Supported Employment program for nearly that long. Today, Robbie works at Home Depot as a lot tech, gathering carts and “buggies” and storing them properly. A few months ago, Robbie was named “Employee of the Month.”
For Robbie, a typical day at work involves gathering carts with his SFM job coach, Davelyn Duncan. Job coaches work closely alongside employees, providing support, guidance, and encouragement. Her help has enabled Robbie to expand his skills at Home Depot and take on other responsibilities.
“Robbie doesn’t just work hard; he works with his heart,” says Duncan. “His dedication shows not only in what he does, but in how he makes people feel. Remembering customers
by name, greeting them with a smile … It’s the little things that speak volumes. You can see their faces light up when he says their name. It’s clear that Robbie loves what he does, and it shows in every interaction.”
“My favorite is the paint section,” says Robbie. “I like learning how to do it, and I get to use a computer. I did it at a hardware store in high school. I haven’t done it very much yet, but they’re working on that.”
As an associate coach, he’s also helped train other employees.
Two decades ago, Bridgeway staff worked with Robbie to help him get his job at Home Depot by teaching him interview and computer skills and assisting him in his job search. The Supported Employment and Job Discovery programs provide residents and other participants (local non-residents are also eligible) with everything they need to find and retain dignified, meaningful employment. It also enables them to socially engage more fully with others within their community.
“Supported employment is more than a program and service, it’s a movement,” says Bridgeway Residential Executive Director Dreydan Doss. “It transforms the lives of individuals with disabilities by breaking down barriers and empowering participants to unveil their full potential in job opportunities when given the right supports. Robbie is a prime example of one of our many participants thriving in highly competitive environments. He proves every day that disabilities do not define a person, abilities do.”
Robbie typically works three days a week, from 8 a.m. to noon. When he’s not on the job, he competes in Special Olympics and Buddy Ball (baseball for persons with IDD) and sings at church and community events. He’s especially fond of country music, specifically Garth Brooks. His hobby and favorite pastime, however, is building models of trucks and tractors, and he has nearly all of them on display in his apartment.
“I’m not sure how many I have … too many,” he says.
His biggest source of pride, though, is his job.
“It’s a good job; the managers are nice,” he says. “They make sure I stay hydrated and come in from the heat. I like people. People know me around town, and it’s great. Bridgeway is also a good place to live.”
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