Tap Challenges Himself and Sets Records

Tap worked his way through college by waiting tables at a private club in Nashville.  He received both his Bachelors and MBA degrees from Tennessee State University.  He was referred to Park Center by a friend in 2008 and began attending Park Center's Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program.  Since he had so much work experience in food service, Tap decided to choose the Clerical Unit to learn new skills and challenge himself.  He is a leader in the unit and frequently is recognized as the Member of the Week.  He received the Member of the Month award for June of 2009.

Although he had several setbacks because of his illness, he was able to work with his doctors and get his medication working effectively.  After he stabilized, he was able to move from his boarding home into Park Center Independent Housing.  He says he feels tranquil and has a sense of belonging since he moved into his apartment.  The move allowed him to become more active in his own recovery.

With help from Park Center staff and employment team, Tap was able to find a job working as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army during the 2009 holiday season.  He used his vast sales experience and applied it to his bell ringing, even developing a script to use when asking shoppers for donations.  This self motivation propelled him to the top spot for the season.  Most days his collection bucket had over $400, which set daily records in Nashville, and he set the Christmas Eve record for over $500!  The Salvation Army recognized his hard work.

Although the job ended for the year, Tap has taken this success and is back in the job market, looking forward to his next set of challenges.