Laura, Amy and Alex are unique individuals, but also have many things in common. They have been a dynamic team of janitors that have provided services to big and small businesses for many years. Alex, Laura, & Amy are Deaf and communicate in sign language. The crew is led by their Vocational Support Staff, Ruku Madihalli.

Words that employers often used to describe this group are:

  • punctual
  • focused
  • positive
  • flexible
  • joyful
  • cooperative
  • detail orientated
  • thorough
  • professional

One of their jobsites is the STEP office itself, which is 11,000 square feet and includes 22 offices, 24 cubicles, 3 large class/conference rooms, and public restrooms. The daily traffic for this office complex is easily 300-400 people, but this crew has kept us looking good for many years.

Until 2005 Laura lived at home with her family; sadly within the two years prior Laura lost all the members of her immediate family. Laura came to STEP in a whirlwind of life turmoil, but she has weathered all the traumatic and dramatic changes with the most positive attitude. Laura lives in a home held in trust for her, with a roommate. She goes to work every day without fail, and employers and co-workers always remark on her infectious positive personality.

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