Joshua, a 28-year-old Angelino, came to Mychal’s Print & Embroidery in 2023 through a connection made by his mom, Judy Mark. Judy is co-founder and President of Disability Voices United, an organization she helped create after raising her own adult son with autism. Her work has connected many families to opportunities like Mychal’s, and it was through her that Josh found his place in the print shop.
At the shop, Josh works on folding t-shirts, sorting stickers, and preparing finished orders. He also helps with hats by removing inserts and stickers before applying Mychal’s labels. With a bit of guidance, Josh learns each task carefully, and his aide Marlon- who has been by his side for nearly 20 years- provides steady support along the way.
Manager Jose Carillo has seen Josh’s confidence grow. “In the first year, Josh didn’t communicate with staff or peers as much. After years of participating in the print shop, it seems like Josh’s self-esteem has been building up. Now he greets his peers with phrases such as ‘Hi guys’ or ‘I’m leaving now.’ These are the accomplishments we want to see from students like Josh.”
Before his time at Mychal’s, Josh held a job at Marina Del Rey Library, where he was proud to help put books back on shelves. That experience still stands out to him as an important milestone, and it highlights his attention to detail and sense of responsibility.
Josh also has unique strengths outside of formal jobs. He has a special talent for memorizing maps and enjoys reading them in his spare time. He spends time at Mar Vista Library, enjoys cooking, and stays active with gymnastics at Leaps and Bounds and exercise at Aviation Park.
As Marlon explains, “We’re always trying to give him more independence- that’s the goal.” With the steady progress Josh is making in both his work and his communication, that goal feels closer every day.
