The kind-hearted business owner in Redwater

By Myrina Carter

Ken Evans, owner of Redwater IGA at 5028 79 Avenue, shared his warm and kind-hearted soul through the hiring process, looking for a new shelf facer for the local grocery store. Evans opened his arms offering employment to a young autistic man, Alan Jr Ward, near the beginning of August. He was looking to give the young man an opportunity to learn in the work world and provide him with something to take pride in. Ward keeps the shelves faced and organized while greeting customers and employees with smiles and kindness every shift he works.

Evans said, “Alan is autistic and is a very gentle soul. He helps us immensely and gets the job done. It helps Alan with self-pride and he is a helpful employee like any other! He is capable and does not get any special treatment; he is just like anyone else. We are grateful for his help as an employee and to have the sweetest kid on our team!”

Ward’s father speaks out about how thankful he is to have a business owner in the community of Redwater who took the time with his son. Ward said, “Ken Evans has gone over and above to help our son be employed, taking the time to teach him and help him get through the days. We truly appreciate the wonderful opportunity he has shared with us and our son, Alan Jr. We couldn’t be more proud and grateful.”

It shows that many community members are open to sharing growth opportunities and employment opportunities with everyone. Instead of leading with judgment, community members spread love and kindness and are lovely human beings.

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Ken Evens, owner of Redwater IGA at 5028 79 Avenue, gives a young man a chance to make his family feel forever grateful and proud. Evens showed his kindheartedness and non-judgmental self through the hiring process when he hired an autistic employee.