For families that have children with autism, the support of friends and the community can often turn a challenging situation into a victory. Thanks to Ron & Kerry Foppe of Foppe Ace Hardware, Ryan Mensing has a job and a purpose he can be proud of.

Ryan was diagnosed with autism when he was three years of age. As Ryan grew older, he had the desire to get a job like his brother and sisters. His parents Bob and Marla Mensing helped Ryan search for employment opportunities.

"Ryan was on the high spectrum, but it was hard for him to find a job that fit his needs," said Marla.

Ron and Bob were both on the Breese, Illinois Volunteer Fire Department. At the fire department’s summer outing, the Foppe and the Mensing families bonded quickly since they both have a son with autism. When Marla mentioned Ryan’s desire to find a job, Kerry suggested a position for Ryan at Foppe Ace Hardware.

"Having a son with autism has brought so much joy that I didn’t know I had," said Kerry. "Since then, I just want to help these kids because I love them and I wanted to give them a purpose. When I gave Ryan an Ace shirt and a name tag, it gave him purpose."

Ryan fit right in at Ace. He tends to his responsibilities and takes great pride in performing his tasks correctly and meticulously. The other employees at Foppe Ace enjoy having Ryan around.

"There’s no doubt when he comes into the room, he brightens the room," said Ron. "He is the bright spot of our day when he’s here."