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Empowering Unique Learners
Drake holding up volunteer tshirt
Student Gains Valuable Experience as MSP Volunteer
Katie Stalter

When Drake’s mom, Amy, first suggested that he volunteer at the Miriam Switching Post over the summer, the high school junior was skeptical. It would be his first work experience. But Drake decided he needed something to do over the summer, so he took on the challenge. “I didn’t want to be lazing about,” he said.

“Drake has stepped up to the plate in all the good ways,” said Roy Wunsch, MSP manager. “He has an exuberant personality, and he could be heard welcoming and thanking each customer with his signature line, ‘Have a lovely day!’”

Drake said he had a fun summer working at the MSP on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Being in the shop makes him happy. “There’s always something to do.”

He was willing to help anywhere he was needed, from folding rags or packing paper, dusting furniture, and helping to load customers’ cars. One day, he even received a tip from a customer!

Drake’s favorite day, though, was accompanying the movers on a donation pickup. “I really enjoyed going with my coworkers to pick up the furniture.”

He also appreciates the experience he gained while volunteering at the shop. He learned important work skills, such as arriving on time and being helpful. “If I get a paid job, I’ll have experience,” Drake said.

Roy said he loved having Drake in the shop this summer, and he hopes to provide these volunteer experiences for more Miriam students.

“I want to make sure we are giving the students at the school the opportunity to learn what goes on in the real world,” Roy said. “We teach them every aspect of what goes on at the store. It’s an avenue to learn new skills.”

As Drake was wrapping up his time at the Switching Post, Roy presented him with a special t-shirt. Drake proudly wore the shirt on his first day of school last week.