At Round Table Pizza in Pasco, the smell of fresh dough fills the air as the team gets ready for another busy day. But for those working the weekend shift, there’s something even more energizing than the aroma of rising dough—Ray Johnson’s infectious positivity.
Ray isn’t just a weekend dough roller—he’s an essential part of the team, known for his hard work, upbeat attitude, and legendary playlist that turns morning prep into an impromptu jam session. But Ray’s story is about more than just a great job. It’s about growth, perseverance, and finding a path to success through Columbia Ability Alliance’s Employment Services and Opportunity Kitchen program.
From No Job Experience to a Job He Loves
Ray’s journey with CI Information Management’s Employment Services program is nothing short of inspiring. Before coming to Columbia Ability Alliance, Ray had never held a job. He needed support, training, and most importantly, the confidence to succeed in the workforce. Through our program, he gained the tools to develop professional skills, build workplace independence, and learn how to navigate the job world.
But Ray didn’t stop there. He took his journey one step further by enrolling in our 12-week Opportunity Kitchen program, where he trained in food service skills, learned kitchen fundamentals, and discovered his passion for the industry.
With his newfound confidence and hands-on experience, Ray secured a job at Round Table Pizza in Pasco, where he has become an invaluable member of the team.
More Than Just Dough—Building Skills and Confidence
Ray has been working at Round Table Pizza for a couple of years now, rolling dough each weekend and helping ensure the restaurant runs smoothly. His manager praises his strong work ethic, reliability, and positive attitude, noting that Ray:
- Arrives at work in a great mood, setting a positive tone for the team
- Communicates well and is open to feedback
- Steps up to cover shifts on short notice
- Can be trusted to work independently and get the job done
And of course, his playlist is legendary. With his Bluetooth speaker blasting his favorite tunes, Ray turns the morning prep shift into a fun, high-energy experience for everyone around him.
A True Testament to Hard Work and Dedication
Ray’s journey shows that with the right support and opportunities, anyone can thrive in the workforce. He went from having no job experience to excelling in a job he loves, proving that dedication and perseverance lead to success.
His employer couldn’t be happier to have him on board, saying:
“Ray’s happy mood and willingness to help when needed make him a great asset to my store. I am happy to have him here.”
How You Can Support Inclusive Employment
Ray’s story is just one of many examples of how Columbia Ability Alliance is helping individuals build careers and change lives. By supporting businesses like Round Table Pizza, you’re also supporting programs that create job opportunities for people of all abilities.
If you’re a business owner looking to hire reliable, hardworking employees, Columbia Ability Alliance’s Employment Services can help you find the perfect fit. If you’re an individual looking for a path to employment, we’re here to provide the support, training, and encouragement you need.
Together, we can create a more inclusive workforce—one job, one opportunity, and one success story at a time.
