Supported Employment Spotlight: Salvation Army

Erie, Pa. (June 1, 2026) Each Monday, we share stories that reflect our commitment to providing hope and opportunity to individuals and families across our communities. This post is written by Jacob Bennefield, a communications intern at Barber National Institute who is exploring how storytelling can connect people to our mission. #MissionMonday

At Salvation Army's thrift store in Erie we visited Reid, a participant in our supported employment program. Here he works as a custodian providing janitorial services for the store. Reid showed us his daily task list and gave us a tour. He told us about how they use donated vacuums and rags for their cleaning purposes. Reid's job coach James said that Reid is close to not needing a job coach anymore and is already very independent. Reid gained valuable work experience at John Russell Brewing Co. as a dishwasher which prepared him for his position at the Salvation Army. Reid took initiative and advocated for himself by exploring a new job opportunity.

Reid likes working here because he gets to be closer to his friends. Reid said that because he is surrounded by people like him, "this place feels like home." Many of Reid's coworkers are also a part of our supported employment program. Isaac, a friend of Reid's, hangs clothes at the Salvation Army. Isaac and Reid like to hangout outside of work and have been friends for a long time. Christohper and Jonathan are other individuals that hang clothes alongside Isaac. Reid's manager Sue noted how hardworking he and the rest of the staff are. Sue told us, "This partnership with Barber has really worked out great."

Reid and his coworkers have built a community around their work. They enjoy being around similar and like-minded people who take great pride in what they do. This community comes together to support each other throughout their journeys to independence.

Learn more about supported employment at Barber National Institute