Employee makes friends with residents, workers of assisted living community

CHERRY HILL, N.J. (WPVI) -- A stand-out employee is making a host of new friends in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. The young man is mentally challenged, but to the residents of Spring Hills Assisted Living he's a bright spot in their day!

22-year-old Greg Figuerelle is one of the servers with whom the residents at Spring Hills look forward to spending part of their day.

He started this job polishing silverware and folding napkins. His sister, a community relations coordinator at Spring Hills, thought the position might be a good fit.

Greg has been an employee for nearly 3 months and his enthusiasm and rapport with these residents have brought him more responsibility.

Brian Schleper, chief chef at Spring Hills, says, "That's one thing I really like about him is the fact that even when he's finished what he's doing, he's already right on to the next thing. 'Can I take food out, can I do this.' So, it's good to have him."

One of Greg's favorite foods to make and serve is smoothies.

We asked him what the trick to a good smoothie. He says, "Always gotta make sure you get it right."

Schleper explains, "He has a lot in common with a lot of people, actually. He talks about music and he talks about some of the things he likes to do."

Some employees say there was some concern initially about how Greg would fit in, but he's surpassed their expectations.

"Oh, above and beyond. Definitely. He's a big help," one employee said.

His employers say hiring Greg has been a great decision for everyone.

Michael Lando, Spring Hills Executive Director, tells us, "This is a mutually beneficial opportunity for Greg, for the residents to interact with him, for our staff as well, and for Spring Hills as a company."

Dining Room Supervisor Tuwana Gainer says, "We choose to focus on what he brings to us - his capabilities more than any kind of disabilities."