A local man is proving the benefits of workplace diversity by bringing joy to others during his voluntary work placement.
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Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory's Sam Cord, who has Down syndrome, is renowned for his enthusiasm, contagious laughter and awesome high-fives, bringing a much-needed boost to staff morale.
Mr Cord, the factory's 'guest greeter', is considered an irreplaceable member of staff who developed a sweet tooth for helping the business during his many visits as a guest.
"His carer makes a habit of getting him here 10 minutes early for his shift so that he can walk in while everyone is having coffee together to hug and high-five everyone," she said.
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Mr Cord, 33, is supported by the team at Kurrajong, and when the lockdown restrictions were introduced, he was unable to volunteer for health and safety reasons.
"He was unable to visit for a month and everyone noticed a big change, but the first week back, when he walked in, it was like Christmas for everyone," she said. "He ran around like a crazy person on a sugar high, high-fiving everyone ... his favourite band is Silverchair, so we had that blasting through the factory."
This October, Down Syndrome Awareness Month aims to celebrate the abilities and accomplishments of those with Down syndrome across Australia.
Kurrajong general manager Mathew Bertram said his service is continuing to work with local businesses to build "open, accessible and inclusive workplaces" for all people.
"Over the last few years we have seen a very positive shift in the number of local businesses that are opening their doors and adapting their workplaces to cater for people of all backgrounds and abilities," he said.
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