Patrick, 27, who has an autism spectrum disorder, has worked at HB Threads for almost 9 years learning how to make custom buttons and apparel, fold shirts, and work independently.
“I like working at HB Threads because I have a consistent routine and it makes me feel good about myself that I can make buttons and do things to help. The job coaches are great because they help me focus when I get stuck,” says Patrick, who also enjoys being around his friends and earning money.
“I like working at HB Threads because I have a consistent routine and it makes me feel good about myself that I can make buttons and do things to help. The job coaches are great because they help me focus when I get stuck."
HB Threads is one of the few employers who offer a competitive wage for individuals with disabilities. A big film fan, particularly of the superhero and fantasy genres, Patrick likes to use his earnings to purchase his favorite DVDs to add to his growing collection. He says he also likes to use his income to “save for games, books, and eating out.”
“At HB Threads, we are proud to offer competitive-wage employment to individuals with disabilities, offering a wide range of jobs and career exploration. Here, individuals of all abilities experience an integrated workplace with hands-on training and development,” says Cody Wass, Director of Social Enterprise & Employment Opportunities at HB Threads.
Patrick began work at HarrysButtons as one of many student employees “trying out” a new job as part of the Easterseals Academy—an alternative school placement for young people ages 3-22 with an autism spectrum disorder, emotional disability, developmental delay or intellectual disability. He enjoyed it so much that he never stopped.
“Patrick is an incredible young man with a great passion for his job and his coworkers. We are lucky to have Patrick as a production associate for HarrysButtons," says Wass.
You can find Patrick at the HBThreads’ office every week creating unique merchandise, oftentimes with positive messages about disabilities, like “Don’t Dis my Ability” or “Be Different” T-Shirts. Patrick’s favorite items to make are buttons with his favorite comic book or Marvel characters on them. He’s super exciting to begin learning about the newest addition to the HB Threads office, an embroidery machine to make custom apparel!
A sample of offerings at HarrysButtons.com
“As HB Threads expands into embroidery and apparel, more opportunities are being created for Individuals with disabilities like Patrick,” says Wass . “Our employees are passionate, dedicated, and skilled at what they do. For many, this has become a career, one they’ve been dedicated to for 5-15 years, in some cases. The more we grow the business and gain loyal customers the more jobs HB Threads can offer to this underutilized and often overlooked population."
In addition to his position at HB Threads, Patrick also workds at the local comic store. Comics are one of his many passions, including movies, graphic novels, superheroes, and spending time with his family and friends, especially his brother Jake with whom he talks regularly. He also loves to participate in sports and bowling, and volunteers at the local library. Patrick lives in an assisted independent living facility and is thriving! He credits HB Threads for being a significant contributor to his success.
“Patrick’s flexibility, willingness to try new things, and openness to feedback were key qualities that helped him transition to become an adult employee after he graduated from Easterseals Academy. Patrick is someone that values his jobs and sees them as an important part of his life and we’re so happy to be a part of that,” says Reis.
Patrick working at Challengers Comics