Breaking Barriers with Down Syndrome: Mollie Celebrates a 24-Year Career and Well-Deserved Retirement
- Ginger Cohen - TMI Director of Corporate Communications
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) is proud to honor a truly monumental career. Our client, Mollie—a remarkable woman with Down syndrome—has officially retired from Carl’s Jr. in El Centro after an amazing 24 years of service!
Mollie has been receiving services with TMI since September 2021 and is currently thriving in our Tailored Day Services (TDS) program. Her journey stands as a shining example that disability doesn't mean inability.
As TMI Division Manager Lydia Rodriguez beautifully puts it:
"Mollie has done an amazing job throughout her time with TMI. We are incredibly proud of all she has accomplished, including her dedication and commitment during her many years of employment at Carl's Jr. Reaching retirement is a wonderful milestone, and it is a testament to her hard work and perseverance. She has been an inspiration to both staff and her peers."
A Legacy of Hard Work and Smiles
For over two decades, Mollie was a vital part of the daily operations at Carl's Jr. Her daily responsibilities kept her moving and interacting with the community she loves.
Mollie's daily routine included:
Wiping down tables
Ensuring the facility was clean and welcoming
Serving customers their food
Making sure customers always had everything they needed
Her commitment didn't go unnoticed. During her 24-year tenure, Mollie reached an exceptional milestone that she holds incredibly close to her heart.
"I received an award for being one of the best members on the team," Mollie proudly shares. "I am happy to have worked at Carl’s Jr. for 24 years."
When asked what her coworkers, managers, and regular customers would say about her, the answer was simple: she is known for being friendly, respectful, helpful, always smiling, and always willing to give a helping hand. When reflecting on what the Carl's Jr. team will miss most, Mollie smiled and said, "My help."
While her hard work will be missed, the feeling is mutual. Mollie notes that what she will miss most are her dear coworkers and the wonderful customers she got to serve every day.
Growth, Independence, and the Power Within
Behind every great milestone is a strong support system. Sarah Benavides, Mollie’s TMI Direct Support Professional (DSP), has had a front-row seat to Mollie’s incredible journey of personal and professional growth.
"As her DSP at TMI, I have seen her grow by becoming much more independent over the years," Sarah says. "She has gained confidence in completing daily tasks, making choices for herself, and taking on more responsibilities. It has been rewarding to see her progress as she continues to build skills and become more self-sufficient."
For Sarah and the rest of the TMI team, being part of Mollie’s life is a profound reminder of why dedicated support matters.
"Supporting Mollie through this journey has been a meaningful and rewarding experience for both me and the TMI team," Sarah shares. "We are proud of her accomplishments and grateful to have been part of their progress. Seeing the positive impact of consistent support and encouragement reminds us why the work we do is so important."
To honor Mollie's journey, Sarah shares a fitting quote from The Wizard of Oz, as Mollie is a huge fan of the film:
"You've always had the power, my dear. You just had to learn it for yourself."
The Next Exciting Chapter
Retirement doesn't mean slowing down for Mollie. In fact, she is ready to take center stage in this next chapter of her life—and she has the perfect quote from Dirty Dancing to prove it:
"Nobody puts Baby in a corner."
Mollie has big plans for her well-deserved retirement! She is kicking things off by traveling to visit her beloved family in Utah and Bakersfield.
Furthermore, although she is retiring from Carl's Jr., Mollie will continue participating in TMI's Tailored Day Services program. As Lydia notes, "She looks forward to remaining active in her community, participating in volunteer opportunities, social outings, and continuing to work toward her personal goals while enjoying this exciting new chapter of her life."
Mollie plans to keep busy by continuing to attend her program, going to the movies, and filling her days with fun activities.
Congratulations on 24 years, Mollie! We are so proud of you, and we can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next!
Thank you to Carl's Jr. for partnering with us to transform lives!
(Thank you to Sarah and Lydia for contributing to this story and for all that you do to assist our clients!)
Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) clients who are a part of our Tailored Day Services (TDS) program are encouraged to self-direct and participate in determining their program day. We are here to help our clients plan their day their way. With the anticipation of maximizing life satisfaction, this exciting program tailors our client’s day based on their personal choices, hopes and dreams.
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Founded in 1981, Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and veterans with disabilities. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living Services and Family Support Services. To stay connected with us, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion. Please consider making a donation to assist us with transforming lives for many more years to come. We thank you in advance! Tax ID# 33-018575