She’s a bundle of energy on a mission to deliver drinks, clear tables and clean windows.

Betty, to the regulars.

The job is challenging, sometimes overwhelming, but it is everything to the 66-year-old Auburn woman.

“I like being friendly to the visitors, picking their things up,” said Betty Ugland, taking a break from her shift at Panera Bread at Kent Station, her part-time job for the past seven years. “I’m doing well here … they want me to stay.”

Ugland is one of the many men and women who have found hope, purpose and a steady job with the help of Trillium Employment Services, a nonprofit organization that’s committed to integrating people with intellectual disabilities into the workforce. Its staff of skilled professionals works closely with businesses and applicants to ensure a quality match and long-term success.

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Trillium, and other reputable agencies like it, are playing a big part by providing opportunities for individuals who want to work, and companies eager to diversify.

Businesses in a variety of fields and individuals with disabilities benefit from Trillium’s recruiting and job training services. Trillium, which started in Auburn more than 30 years ago, serves King, Pierce, Kitsap and Clark counties. Trillium has placed individuals in 720 jobs in the area since 2010. So far this year, 119 clients have found work through Trillium’s guidance.

Seven businesses at Kent Station have reached out and connected with Auburn-based Trillium, one of the country’s pioneer employment agencies. Eight Trillium-backed employees work at Kent Station today. Merchants are realizing the benefits of joining the program, according to Cynthia Tanis, Kent Station marketing manger.

“Trillium has a presence here, and by spreading the word, more businesses are willing to work with them,” Tanis said.

Michelle Suarez is a believer.

While working at Road Runner Sports, she discovered the joys of sharing the job with a Trillium-supported employee, Markell Bronson.

“It changed the atmosphere when he came to work. … He would turn (other employees’ days) around,” said Suarez, who now works as an employment consultant for Trillium. “(Markell) always has a positive attitude. He’s just a pleasure to work with. … No matter who the person is, they have something to offer the business. It’s an untapped resource because they have so much to offer.”

Individuals with disabilities have proven to be some of the hardest workers.

One of those is Covington’s Dona Ayres, 26, who has been busing tables and doing other chores at Trapper’s Sushi for three years.

“I love being here. It makes me happy and keeps me focused,” Ayres said. “Sometimes there’s pressure, but others help me. I do really well here.”

Whitney Starksen, Ayres’ job coach, has seen her grow with the work experience.

“She’s a total rock star,” Starksen said. “She’s awesome.”

Trillium works with employers to identify their needs, then determines which candidate best fits that job. The workplace is assessed as well.

Trillium helps recruit, train and retain employees. Employees stay on the job an average of 3 1/2 years, although some work longer. The average yearly retention of Trillium-supported employees since 2010 is 73 percent.

“The program benefits the individual and the business,” said Jay Hamann, communications coordinator for Trillium. “It’s a great opportunity for them to receive the self-satisfaction and the self-confidence that comes with an employment opportunity.”

To learn more, visit trillium.org.

PHOTO BELOW:

Covington’s Dona Ayres, 26, cleans menus at Trapper’s Sushi at Kent Station, where she has worked for three years. She enjoys the customers and busing tables.
MARK KLAAS, Kent Reporter