West Bay Works: Julie MacDonald 16 Years of Service to Showcase Cinemas

WARWICK, RI – For many people Sunday is a day off, but for Julie MacDonald it is the busiest day of the week. Just after she graduated from high school 16 years ago, Julie was hired as an usher at Showcase Cinemas on Quaker Lane in East Greenwich. Each Sunday from 1-4 pm Julie greets guests, takes their tickets, and maintains cleanliness in the auditoriums at the multiplex. Julie’s job, and her status as a valued Showcase employee, bring her a great deal of satisfaction and fulfillment.

“I love working here. Everybody’s so nice,” says Julie, clearly happy to be part of the team at the theater. Julie’s dedication to the theater is displayed proudly on her uniform. Her Showcase vest is covered in decorative pins, each signifying a year of service. With 16 thus far, Julie shows no signs of stopping and will certainly receive more of these milestone gifts.

When asked what she thinks has made Julie so successful at Showcase, West Bay Support Staff Member Aja Bairos says that welcoming guests to the theater has become an important part of Julie’s routine. “Julie can be shy but looks forward to going to work every week. She enjoys meeting different people and seeing old friends that she has made during her time working there.”

Additionally, Julie benefits from a great relationship with the management and staff of the theater. She speaks very highly of her coworkers, saying, “I love seeing them every week. They’re perfect.” The positive feelings are mutual. Her co-workers have been continuously supportive of Julie, with several journeying to the University of Rhode Island’s Kingston campus to watch her compete in the 2013 Special Olympics.

For her part, Rachel Lulay, Manager of Public Relations and Promotions for National Amusements, the parent company of Showcase Cinemas, said, “Julie is an integral part of the quality services we provide to our guests.  We feel that opportunities exist for all.  Workforce diversity has proven to not only add to the richness of our operational culture but also benefits the community at large.”

In addition to her work at Showcase Julie keeps a busy schedule. She works part time at the Treasure Chest, a thrift shop operated by Project Friends, and volunteers with the Helping Hands Committee at West Bay, where she recently assisted with a Bingo event for charity. While she admittedly enjoys all of her jobs, Julie is particularly fond of the theater, and takes pride in her work welcoming moviegoers, and ensuring their movie experience is as enjoyable as possible.

Julie’s success is a wonderful testament to opportunities for employment through West Bay. With the support of her coworkers and West Bay’s staff, Julie has found fulfillment and longevity in her position at Showcase Cinemas

West Bay Residential Services, Inc. provides residential, employment and day support services to more than 130 individuals with developmental disabilities.  West Bay supports individuals in making life choices, maintaining friend and family relationships and having fun while establishing their role within their community.

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