Meet Oscar (Maryland)!

OSCAR'S STORY:

Oscar works at Petco as a Sales Associate. “I stock and sort the items and check the numbers on the items to make sure they are going in the correct spot,” Oscar said. “I help customers find different kinds of food for their cats and dogs. I keep the store organized and replace items on the shelves with stock from the back when we run out.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Oscar focused on staying safe at home and at work. “During this summer, I was furloughed for 2 months and came back to work in June,” Oscar said. “When I’m at work, I wear my mask and gloves so I can stay safe. I wash my hands everyday whether I am at work or not. I try not to touch my face, nose, or eyes. Also, when I’m not at work, it is important for me to stay safe at home and socially distance while in the community.”

Oscar believes he kept his job during the pandemic by focusing on work and doing what his boss asked of him. “My schedule has been moving around because of company changes due to COVID-19,” Oscar explained, “but I continue to work hard so that I can get more hours.” During COVID-19, communication with customers has been very important. “I have had to ask customers to put on their mask when entering the store. But we can’t be rude with the customers. ”

Oscar believes that people with disabilities want to work harder and earn a paycheck. “We focus on what the supervisor says, are loyal to the company, and help customers when they walk into the store,” he said. “Employees with disabilities are flexible with their work tasks and can do a variety of different things around the store. In the future, I hope to learn how to use the cash register and help customers with fish.”