Athletes in the Workplace: Smith Goes From Volunteer to Sandwich Maker

Opportunities come when we sometimes least expect them.

For Vigo County athlete Charlie Smith, a volunteer role during Jersey Mike’s Day of Service opened the door to a part-time job and a path to two things he loves – meeting people and helping them.

Jersey Mike’s is a co-presenting partner of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. On March 25, stores across Indiana donated 100 percent of their sales to support the USA Games and Team Indiana.

Smith arrived at his local store to help any way he was needed. He started as a greeter but quickly moved to bagger when orders started backing up. As the lunch rush continued, he joined the line and helped make the sandwiches.

He prepared for a day of sharing his story of what Special Olympics means to him and wound up elbow deep in cold cuts.

“When I first arrived, the manager had me greeting customers as they came into the restaurant,” Smith said. “For those who didn’t know about Special Olympics, I wanted to give them a short story about us. I am a people person, so I was happy to do this.”

Things started getting busy. Door Dash drivers were lined up, looking for their orders. Store manager Ashley Dunn turned to Smith to see if he was willing to take on a different role.

Smith stepped up, and Dunn knew right away she had the help she needed.

“Charlie showed up full of energy and excitement,” Dunn said. “We were busy, but he wanted in on a part of the action.

In short order, Smith got his own uniform and a crash course in sandwich making.

“He decided to tap another employee on the shoulder who was ‘sprinkling’ our subs (with spices), and said, ‘I need to learn that. Can you teach me?’” Dunn said. “My team enjoyed his passion to learn. And we taught him enough to support the team. We provided him with an apron, and we rocked out for a few hours. “

Being so busy made the day fly by, and Smith was sad to see it end.

Before he left, he asked Dunn if they were hiring. As it turned out, they were.

“Ashley gave me the link to apply online, and my mom helped me apply before leaving the restaurant,” Smith said. “The next day, Ashley emailed (Vigo County Coordinator) Jodi Moan and said she wanted to hire me. Jodi reached out to me, and I immediately contacted Ashley.”

Smith’s first day on the job was April 10. As a crew member, he works 10 to 15 hours per week.

“I really enjoy my job,” Smith said. “I enjoy learning new things every time I work. I also enjoy helping the customers decide which sandwich they want.”

He is making friends and earning money. Two more things he really enjoys.

“My coworkers are becoming like family to me,” Smith said. “They all treat me like one of them, and they don’t judge me because of my challenges.

“Having a job makes me feel important. It makes me feel like I am part of the community. It also makes me feel proud of myself.”

Dunn said the Jersey Mike’s crew loves the positive energy Smith brings every shift. He has the skills to do the job and communicates well with both customers and coworkers. He also brings a willingness to learn.

“I am happy Ashley and Jersey Mike’s gave me the opportunity to prove myself,” Smith said. “I have applied for many jobs and have been rejected each time. I wish more employers were like Jersey Mikes and give the special needs community a chance.”