The Power of a Smile: JJ's Story at Powerhouse Grill
Lindsey Smith, co-owner of Powerhouse Grill in Yakima, Washington, is no stranger to the hustle and bustle of the restaurant industry. Having worked at Powerhouse Grill since its inception in 2003, Lindsey has seen her fair share of employees come and go. However, none have made quite the same impression as JJ, a part-time employee who joined the team two years ago. JJ, a young man with Down syndrome, has become an integral part of the Powerhouse Grill family, leaving a lasting impact on both the staff and the customers.
Creating the Foundation for Inclusion and Opportunity
It all started when Lindsey was approached by Eileen, a job coach from Trillium, an employment service that connects people with disabilities to jobs in their areas of interest. Trillium was looking to find a position for JJ, who wanted to work in the food service industry.
In the past, Lindsey had the pleasure of working with amazing team members who brought diverse abilities to the table. "So, when Eileen mentioned JJ, we were more than happy to bring him on," says Lindsey.
From the beginning, it was clear that JJ was eager to contribute.
"He didn’t last long in the more task-oriented roles," Lindsey laughs. "He wanted to talk to people, help customers, and really be part of the action."
JJ’s outgoing personality has made him a natural fit for a customer-facing role. Whether he’s greeting regulars or checking in with tables to make sure everyone has what they need, JJ has become a familiar face at Powerhouse Grill.
Building a Flexible and Supportive Workplace
Powerhouse Grill has always prided itself on being a close-knit, family-oriented workplace. JJ’s infectious personality has made him an integral part of this team. Over the past two years, the Powerhouse team has come to rely on him and aims to further his involvement with the company.
“We’re more supportive of each other because of him," Lindsey says.
Working with JJ has come with its challenges, but Lindsey and her team, along with JJ’s job coaches from Trillium, have navigated them with patience and understanding. In the beginning, JJ required close supervision, especially when it came to staying on task.
"For the first year, his job coach needed to be here with him," Lindsey explains. "He would get distracted easily, especially when customers wanted to chat … but over time, he’s really grown."
Now, JJ works three days a week, primarily during Lindsey’s shifts. Thanks to the trust built between JJ and Lindsey, JJ has developed great independence in his role. He knows when to ask for help and when to take initiative, making him a valuable member of the team.
What stands out most about JJ is his enthusiasm.
"He always wants to help," Lindsey shares. "He’s constantly checking in with customers, asking if they need anything."
JJ’s eagerness to assist doesn’t stop at the front of the house, either.
"He’s always asking to learn more. We’re always trying to find new things for him to do. I think he’d love helping out with some simple prep work in the kitchen."
Growing and Learning Together
For Lindsey, the decision to bring JJ on board was easy. Trillium’s support and the guidance of JJ’s job coaches made the transition smooth and allowed JJ to find independence and fulfillment working at Powerhouse Grill.
“Hiring JJ has been one of the best decisions we’ve made,” Lindsey says. “He’s brought joy to our team and customers.”
The partnership with Trillium has strengthened Powerhouse Grill’s workplace culture. JJ has fostered greater camaraderie among the staff, and his unwavering enthusiasm has become a cornerstone of the restaurant’s atmosphere.
“I would encourage other businesses to do the same [hire diverse candidates]. People with disabilities have so much to offer, and with the right support, they can thrive," Lindsey says.
Through the partnership with Trillium, Lindsey has seen firsthand how hiring people with disabilities can transform a workplace.
"We’re all better for having JJ here," Lindsey says. "He’s shown us that with a little patience and a lot of heart, everyone can contribute something special."
