“Abby has always been a people person. She takes on responsibilities and asks questions if she needs help. She has developed tremendously in her personal skills and can transition well. She will only continue to grow,” said Richland Newhope trainer Steve Gottfried.
Abby Sargent is an employee at Jobs and Family Services (JFS) in Mansfield. Sargent was recently awarded Employee of the Quarter and was chosen Employee of the Year for Richland Newhope Inc. She was selected from all of the Newhope-supported individuals who have jobs in the community.
Sargent performs administrative support and has been working with JFS for six years.
“Abby started working at JFS six years ago. There is an employment specialist that helps seek out jobs within the community that are that best matched for the workers. The employment specialist had this job set up and Abby got the job,” said Gottfried.
Sargent and Gottfried became educated on her job together. “I would come in and assist Abby. We would learn together. My job is to help them be successful,” said Gottfried.
Sargent had to learn a variety of different skills for her job. “Abby had to learn how to run machines and she has worked on her organizational skills. Abby is extremely well organized. The workers here have been extremely supportive and have been available for any questions she might need answered. She makes about 150 packets for supporting councelors. She has to make sure there is always enough for them. She also helps with mailings by stuffing envelopes. She is a busy girl,” said Gottfried.
Gottfried visits Sargent at JFS to check on her performance. “I try to come at least twice a month just to touch base with her and make sure everything is going well. Abby is a very hard worker and loves what she does at JFS,” said Gottfried.
Along with her awards she has received as Employee of the Quarter and Employee of the Year, she will also be on billboards for Richland Newhope next year during National Disability Employment Awareness Month. On October 24, Richland Newhope Industries will host its annual Employer Recognition Breakfast at the Holiday Inn. Sargent will receive her award for Employee of the Year during the breakfast along with other award recipients.
Sargent shared her views of her work environment. “I love working here. I like to make friends with everyone. It has been a lot of fun,” said Sargent. She also has a tight group of supporters encouraging her success. “My family is very proud of me and my mom helps me so much. My dad always says that I’m his little girl,” said Sargent.
Sargent does like to make use of her personal time away from JFS. “I love to swim and I really like laying out by my pool. Going to Cancun was a lot of fun because I got to swim with dolphins. I love to dance and I really like Zumba. I enjoy cooking, too. I make chocolate chip cookies, green bean casserole, and beef dip,” said Sargent.
“I love working here. I like to make friends with everyone. It has been a lot of fun,” said Abby Sargent.
