Summer Work Experience 2025

High school students Shandra and Kyle participate in the SWE program at Schnucks, returning grocery carts and helping bag groceries.

Each summer, Community Living’s Employment Services team partners with local high school students to give them a head start on their career journey. Through the support of Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation, our Summer Work Experience (SWE) program offers hands-on job training, soft skill development, and a real-world look at workplace expectations, all within a supportive environment.

This summer, our SWE participants were hard at work at Schnucks in St. Peters, where they committed 20 hours a week to build confidence, independence, and professionalism, in addition to learning the ropes of customer service and teamwork. Some of their responsibilities included retrieving carts, bagging groceries, and putting misplaced items back in their proper place on the shelves.

For returning participant Shandra, coming back for a second summer was an easy decision.

“I had a nice experience last year, so I decided to come back,” she said. “My favorite tasks are taking carts inside (except when it’s really hot) and doing put backs. Like when someone left a pie in aisle 3, I returned it to the bakery.”

Shandra dreams of working in a bakery one day. While that department didn’t need an extra hand this summer, she’s still keeping her goal in sight and practicing her baking skills at home.

“I learned a lot about professionalism this year,” she shared. “Working hard and focusing on the job makes me feel proud.”

When she’s not working, Shandra enjoys baking, caring for her cockatoos and recently attended GFest (Godzilla Fest!) in Chicago.

Kyle joined the SWE program for the first time this year and has quickly caught on to the rhythm of the grocery store.

“I wanted to do SWE for job experience,” he said. “I’ve learned how to put items back in their place and now I know where everything goes in the store.”

Kyle’s favorite parts of the job are helping people and working with others. He’s hoping to save the money he earns but might use it for something fun down the road.

“My dream job would be to play or coach baseball,” he said. “I work here and then go to baseball practice.”

Kelly, their Vocational Instructor this year, has been impressed by the initiative and energy the students bring every day.

“This year’s Summer Work Program participants at the grocery store have been absolutely outstanding,” Kelly said. “From day one, they’ve shown incredible dedication- always on time, eager to learn, and quick to jump into action. Whether it’s helping customers, taking initiative, or stepping up as team players, they’ve exceeded expectations. They’re proactive and always looking for ways to help.”

We’re incredibly proud of these students for their hard work, growth, and positive attitudes. The Summer Work Experience program not only helps prepare them for future employment, but also highlights the value of creating inclusive workplaces in our community.