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When Nate Bruce walks into the Giant Eagle Market District in Settler's Ridge each day, he does more than complete tasks. He brings pride, purpose, and dedication to everything he does. With a warm smile and a genuine desire to help, Nate makes customers feel welcome - whether he's bagging groceries, walking someone to their car, or offering an encouraging word. 

"My favorite part of my job is making everybody happy," Nate shared. "I love helping people - especially the elderly and veterans - out to their cars when they need it." That simple commitment to kindness has made Nate a familiar and beloved presence in the store. His coworkers and customers alike recognize his genuine care and upbeat spirit. 

Recently, Nate and Amber Westwood, Achieva's Associate Director of Business Services, shared his story on Talk Pittsburgh on KDKA-TV | CBS Pittsburgh. Their appearance highlighted what many in the community have come to recognize as "the Achieva Effect": when people with disabilities are supported, respected, and valued in the workplace, they don't just succeed - they thrive. 

A Partnership Built on Possibility 

Nate's success is part of a long-standing partnership between Achieva and Giant Eagle that has spanned for more than a decade. Since 2014, this collaboration has expanded meaningful employement opportunities for Pennsylvanians with disabilities, including students and young adults. 

Through this partnership and others like it, in the past year, nearly 40 people have found not only jobs but also community, confidence, and brighter futures. These opportunities are made possible through Achieva's Competitive-Integrated Employment (CIE) program, which connects people with paid, community-based jobs that align with their stengths, interests, and goals.

Amber explained that Achieva's approach begins with truly getting to know each person.  "We don't just place someone in a job," she shared. "We take time to understand what they like, where they want to be, and how we can help them get there." This person-centered approach ensures that every placement is intentional- designed for long-term success and meaningful growth. 

For Nate, that support made all the difference. 

"The role Achieva played in my job is supporting me with their job coaches," he said. "They helped me apply. They helped me through everything." 

Five Wonderful Years - and Counting

For Nate, that approach led him to Giant Eagle's Settlers Ridge Market District, where he has now worked for five years. 

"Five wonderful years," he proudly shared. 

Since starting at Giant Eagle, Nate has achieved a major personal milestone: moving into his own apartment. "I moved from my parents' basement to my own apartment," he shared. "It is the achievement of my dreams."

That independence represents more than a change of address - it reflects confidence, responsibility, and growth. "It gives me motivation to live on my own," Nate said. "It helps me be social, make a living for myself, and make a huge jump in my life." Through his job, Nate has built financial stability and a strong sense of belonging. "This definitely feels like a supportive community," he explained. "I feel like I'm part of the Giant Eagle family. I'm beyond grateful for all the good they've done for me."

Personalized Support that Builds Independence

Achieva's CIE program is built on personalized support. Through community-basd assessments, career exploration, and discovery processes, staff work closely with individuals to identify strengths and potential. 

From day one, employment specialists provide hands-on instruction and collaborate with workplace mentors to ensure new employees feel confident and prepared. As skills develop, supports are gradually faded, allowing natural workplace relationships to flourish. "Our goal is to fade supports over time," Amber explained, "so people feel comfortable talking with coworkers, managers, and customers."

For Nate, those relationships are central to his success. 

"Miss Shelia has been my inspriation since day one," he shared. "She took me under her wing and helped me blossom. And Miss Karen has always supported me too."

Long after placement, Achieva remains a trusted partner. Ongoing check-ins help employees like Nate take on new responsibilities, navigate challenges, and continue advancing in their careers. 

A Heart for Service and Community

Nate's impact extends far beyond his job description. He takes pride in forming personal connections with customers and helping them feel cared for. "I'm naturally kind-hearted and social," he said. "It's easy for me to make friendly relationships." He recalls helping customers like Miss Eleanor, walking alongside her wheelchair to her car, and making sure she felt safe and supported. Nate also sees his work as part of something bigger. 

"People come here for what they need to survive," he reflected. "Being part of that means so much to me. It makes my heart soar with joy."

He greets customers warmly - often with a cheerful "Hi, how are you?" - and, during hockey season, a spirited "Let's go Pens!"

At the end of the day, he says goodbye to coworkers with fist bumps and kind words: "Nice working with you. See you tomorrow." For Nate, Giant Eagle is more than a workplace - it is where he feels valued, included, and inspired. "I hope it's my forever job," he said. 

Reflecting on his journey, Nate expressed deep gratitude: "My job has meant the world to me. I'm so grateful to be a part of this earth, making a difference every day. I think my teachers, Achieva, my family, my coworkers - and I think myself for perservering. I'm proud."

Nate's story reflects what happens when opportunity, preparation, and partnership come together. With the right supports and inclusive workplaces, people with disabilities are building careers, shaping their futures, and strengthening their communities. 

Partners such as Giant Eagle, Sheetz, Grandpa Joe's, Charley Family Shop 'N Save, and many others open their doors, provide mentorship, and invest in employee growth. These businesses don't simply offer jobs - they create environments where people with disabilities are welcomed, respected, and empowered. 

"Nate's success is a perfect example of what happens when opportunity meets support and partnership," said Westwood. "When businesses value inclusion and invest in growth, everyone benefits - the employee, the workplace, and the community." 

These partnerships stregthen the entire region by building diverse, committed workforces and fostering a cluture of belonging.