John discovered his lifelong employer at a very young age, when he and several classmates at Winchester High School participated in a work preparedness program that brought them to the TD Garden to gain real world experience. The idea was that they would be temporary interns, but for John, the semester-long experience never ended. John immediately stood out for his work ethic, positive attitude, and ability to get along with everyone. By semester’s end, John had earned himself a paid position at the Boston Bruins.
Thirteen years later, John remains a beloved veteran member of the Bruins front office. Four days a week, he takes the commuter rail to work, where he is responsible for mailings, maintaining photocopiers, filling orders, and stocking the break room. On special occasions, he crosses Causeway Street to handle Bruins and Celtics ticketing, and often works the games themselves, carrying cables or other tasks in the control room.
“People with disabilities add so much to your workforce,” says Bob Sweeney, the President of the Boston Bruins Foundation. “If any organization has the opportunity to hire someone like John, they should do it.”
John is so dedicated to the Bruins Foundation that when asked by CBS News when he’s planning to retire, he responded, “I’m never going to leave. I’m going to keep working here for the rest of my life.”
“As soon as John walks into the building, everyone’s mood instantly changes. He is one of our most valuable employees.”
– Bob Sweeney, Boston Bruins Foundation President
