Helping Ian Shine: A Summer of Purpose, Connection & Community
Every summer, while most college students look forward to a break, Ian eagerly prepares to head back to work, just in a new location. Thanks to a thoughtful collaboration between two of Vermont's Designated Agencies—Northwestern Counseling & Support Services (NCSS) and Northeast Kingdom Human Services (NKHS)—Ian, a young man who thrives on purpose, connection, and community, has been able to do what he loves all year long.
Three years ago, Nancy from NCSS reached out to NKHS with a unique request. Ian, a theater student in the Think College program at UVM and a dedicated employee at the St. Albans Market 32, UVM Dining Hall and UVM Rec Center, spends his summers with his family at their cottage on Echo Lake in East Charleston. Ian didn't want to take a break from work; he wanted to stay active, earn money for college, and continue connecting with his community. The solution? A seasonal work transfer to the Derby Price Chopper, close to Echo Lake.
Ian isn't just a hardworking employee—he's a shining presence at every shift. Whether he's stacking shelves with precision or bagging groceries with flair, Ian brings special energy to the store. He loves interacting with customers and is known for his signature send-off:
"It's been a pleasure bagging for you. Thank you for coming to my store." It's a line that never fails to bring a smile, and Ian beams in return.
Behind the scenes, Employment Service Professionals Maire and Carmen provide on-site support, while Chris, NKHS Employment Specialist, ensures Ian gets to and from work. Chris jokes that every shift starts with a necessary stop at the bakery section, where he and Ian "ooh" and "ahh" over the day's treats like they're viewing an aquarium full of sugary wonders. This visit is an important part of Ian's day as his favorite way to wrap up his summer work season is to reward himself with a giant, gooey donut from the Price Chopper bakery. This year, he chose a s'mores donut—an indulgent, well-earned reward for a season of dedication.
Ian's summer job is about much more than a paycheck, though he is saving diligently for college. It's about belonging. Whether he's at the store, at the local transfer station, or out for a drive with his mom, Ian engages with his community wholeheartedly. His passion for connection also shows in his love of theater—he recently attended an overnight theater camp where he acted, danced, and performed in two productions.
For Ian's mom, Elaine, the support from NCSS and NKHS means the world. "I'm grateful that Ian is able to do the work he loves when he's at our summer cottage," she says. "It allows him to engage and participate with the community and feel connected to his home away from home."
The partnership between NCSS and NKHS is a great example of what happens when organizations work together with flexibility, trust, and shared goals. By coordinating services and support, it’s easy for Ian to transition between locations and continue developing both professionally and personally. The Derby Price Chopper store and the St. Albans Market 32 store have been equally accommodating with Ian's schedule, and everyone looks forward to Ian's return.