Popular among his co-workers at an Ankeny Hy-Vee store, former Goodwill client Kevin Zika talks about why he looks forward to going to work.
Friendly and helpful, Kevin Zika knows well the key to his success in his job at Hy-Vee.
“Well, the key is, at Hy-Vee, to smile,” he said. “And to the people passing by, say something, like, ‘Have a good day,’ or ‘Can I help you find anything?’ That’s the key.”
Since Kevin graduated from the Project SEARCH internship program in March, he has worked four days a week at a Hy-Vee store in Ankeny, where he stocks products in the dairy department.
Project SEARCH is a 9-month vocational training program that helps people of all abilities secure competitive employment. Last year, seven of the nine Goodwill clients participating in Project SEARCH internships in Des Moines metro Hy-Vee stores were hired by the stores upon graduation.
Kevin worked for several years at a fast-food restaurant, but his job wasn’t rewarding. Now, he looks forward to his work, which gives him challenges and responsibilities.
“Project SEARCH is a good experience,” he said. “I remember my first day working at Hy-Vee. I had lots of stuff to learn. I was kind of nervous. I had to go step by step. I’m getting better with it now.”
Kevin has been commended for his hard work and helpful attitude. Recently he was recognized for his outstanding customer assistance. “You don’t just tell (customers) where something is, you show them,” he explained.
“I like it because everybody’s nice,” he said.
Kevin’s Project SEARCH instructor, Jennifer Novey, said two store managers wanted to hire Kevin after he interned in their departments.
“Everyone loves Kevin,” she said. “He’s so outgoing and friendly, and he does a really great job. That’s easy for him. He’s always been outgoing.”
Kevin’s mom, Jeanette, is grateful for the opportunities Kevin has received.
“Thank God for Goodwill,” she said. “It gives opportunities. A lot of times, people with special needs are overlooked. A lot of times, people don’t have time for them and they get shafted. Goodwill shows people that yes, they can do it. All they have to do is give people the tools, the opportunity and time. And they can learn.”
“I’m just glad he had that opportunity to find out what his abilities are,” said Kevin’s dad, Craig. “In Project SEARCH it’s structured so (participants) can see how things are done and they get that extra training. He had some peers who didn’t think he could handle it. The program showed him he could handle the responsibilities.”
