Rollie's Story

Rollie Keeley is a walking, talking, smiling example of the difference between having a job and having the right job.

For many years, Keeley worked at a car wash, washing cars in the heat of summer through the coldest winter months. Though the work was physically demanding, Keeley was a devoted, uncomplaining employee.

When Keeley came to Lifeworks for support in 2002, his job coach decided to find a position that would make better use of Keeley’s talents and abilities. That year, Keeley began working for ABM Janitorial Services, helping keep the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport clean.

“Rollie is the perfect combination of efficient and friendly,” says Shannon Gale, assistant manager-facilities at the Metropolitan Airports Commission. “This can be challenging when navigating full trash containers through the airport, which, on a busy day, is not an easy undertaking.”

On a typical day, Keeley walks six to eight miles and removes 1,500 bags of trash from airport restrooms, hallways and businesses. Along the way, he also collects cardboard for recycling — always with a smile and a hello.

Keeley’s job with ABM has given him the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of others, and has made a difference in his life as well.

Your generous gifts to Lifeworks make stories like Rollie’s possible. You are strengthening your community by helping neighbors achieve unsurpassed potential as they work, learn, and live transformed lives full of the pride and purpose we all need and deserve.

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