Hiring Andrew Waterbury from YAI's Brentwood WAVE program wasn't a difficult decision, says Susan Langen, Director of Human Resources at FragranceNet.com.

"I had a sister-in-law, Linda, with cerebral palsy who lived at Willowbrook," Susan recalls. "After seeing Geraldo Rivera's news reports on the facility, my father-in-law brought her home for 20 years. They told my in-laws she wouldn't live past age 8. She passed away at 58."

'We've Got to Do This'

When Susan heard about YAI helping people with disabilities get jobs, she recalls saying, "yes, we've got to do this."

Today Andrew works in the prep department, re-labeling and rebagging products. He has worked at FragranceNet.com, which sells genuine, brand name fragrances, skincare, makeup, haircare, aromatherapy and candles at discount prices, since May of 2014. 

"He is never late and is usually early," Susan says. "Since he began working for us, he has never missed a day. He has a great attitude."

A Paycheck and Independence

This is the first paying job for Andrew, who turns 25 in November, and he appreciates FragranceNet.com giving him the opportunity to work. "They took me in and they treat me right," he says. "Everybody there is friendly and helpful."

Earning a paycheck makes him feel more independent. "Working to me means a daily challenge," Andrew says, "You get up in the morning and apply yourself to something that's bigger than you. In end, you get rewarded for it. It's more than just monetary -- you’re getting rewarded for your accomplishments. That feels great."

Doug Costello, Assistant Supervisor at WAVE, supports Andrew as his job coach. "Finding a job was very important to Andrew," Doug says. "He wanted to start making money and being productive."

Blossoming on the Job

FragranceNet.com was a great fit for Andrew. "He's hard working, always has a good demeanor and is a good guy, Doug says. "It's great to see someone really blossom in their job."

Employment has given Andrew more self-confidence. He's thinking about going to college and taking some economics or business classes. "Maybe one day I'll start my own business. I'd like to run a CD store or restaurant. I don’t like all the digital music." He's weighing his options, including the possibility that one day he'd like to work as a member of YAI staff. 

Taking Pride in Peer Mentoring

When he's not working at FragranceNet.com, he serves as a Peer Mentor at YAI's Commack Day Services, where he assists the staff in helping individuals. "I like helping my peers and my biggest wish is for all my peers at WAVE is that they all have jobs."

Andrew credits the dedicated staff at YAI for his success. "If it weren’t for YAI, I don't know where I would have ended up," he says. "YAI is such a great agency with  great staff members, who are very helpful. I thank the staff and appreciate what they have done for me over the years."

With such a positive attitude and strong work ethic, Andrew will undoubtedly continue to shine in the future.