For 23 years, Ben Burris has been a familiar and friendly presence at the Major General Emmett J. Bean Federal Center. Employed by Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana’s Commercial Services division through the AbilityOne program, his role focuses on maintaining the federal center’s gym. This is a bustling space in the building, where employees come to recharge and unwind. Ben takes great pride in keeping the gym clean, ensuring it remains a welcoming environment for all who use it.

Despite his passion for the role, Ben has worked hard to acclimate to all that it requires. Ben has a disability that can make it difficult to focus for long periods. However, determined to do well, Ben participated in the Steps to Success program. This program assists employees in developing their hard and soft skills through on-the-job training and supplemental coaching, ensuring that they can remain competitive in the workforce.

With the guidance of his supervisors, he has developed strategies to stay on track and succeed in his role. This professional development has been instrumental in his long-term success at the federal center.

Transportation was another barrier Ben experienced. Without a driver’s license, he initially relied on his brother and, at times, expensive ride-sharing apps to get to work. When his brother’s schedule changed, Ben faced uncertainty about his commute. He connected with a Goodwill Mission Coach who helped him navigate Indianapolis’s public transit, giving him the independence to commute reliably on his own.

Ben’s job at the federal center goes beyond cleaning; it allows him to connect with coworkers and gym patrons. His warm smile and friendly conversations foster a sense of community at the federal center. The compliments and appreciation he receives from coworkers and supervisors reinforce the value of his work and motivate him to keep doing his best.

One of the things Ben appreciates most about his position is the work-life balance it provides. With nights and weekends off, along with paid holidays, he has time to focus on family and personal interests. Living with his brother, Ben enjoys outings to breakfast and spending quality time with his nephew and friends. Most importantly, his schedule allows him to attend church on Sundays, an important aspect of his life.

For Ben, meaningful friendships, a job well done, and time with loved ones make all the difference. His dedication and positive spirit continue to make the federal center a better place for everyone who walks through its doors.

Indiana Disability Awareness Month is observed every March. This observance aims to increase the awareness of the barriers and successes of people with disabilities, promote their independence and recognize the importance of providing the accommodations and support they need to integrate into society and the workforce. Ben’s story is one of many here at Goodwill; we’re proud to be one of the biggest employers of persons with disabilities in the state.

To learn more about our employment opportunities, visit our website: goodwillindy.org/careers