Andy Hooton didn't let his physical disability stop him
Andy’s physical disabilities once prevented him from even considering meaningful work or contributing to his community. Thanks to Goodwill, Andy has found work as a janitor, and participates in many other activities once thought impossible.
Andy has a full schedule outside of work which involves things that are meaningful to him, such as practicing his guitar and regularly going to church with his family. Andy’s approach is “can-do” in everything that he attempts, which is never easy. Eternally wrangling with his constant companion and helper, “JC” (Janitors’ Crutch) Andy ultimately gets the job done. As “JC” often occupies the use of his one “good” hand, it is always a consideration to strike the optimum balance with safety and getting his work done on time and with quality.
Andy is the type of employee everyone would like to have. He enjoys his job and is always willing to take on extra duties. He takes great pride in being a professional janitor, and puts every effort into ensuring that the job is done right.
The positive attitude Andy exhibits elicits compliments about his dependable work ethic. Some doubted that he would ever approach this level of independence. Not Andy. He lives life with verve that is without a trace of negativism.
In the past year, Andy has made great progress with speed, efficiency, and quality in his janitorial jobs at the Goodwill Iowa City Store, Bloomington St. Laundromania, and the Department of Transportation. Andy has the use of only one arm, but he doesn’t let it get the better of him. He finds ways to perform his jobs, using various tools to make aspects of his job easier to perform – never once complaining.
No surprise when Andy was chosen to receive a Goodwill Achievement Award in May of 2011.
