Mantua: The Face of Carousel House

Gilbert "Scooter" Hendricks has been working at the Carousel House for more than ten years. As a Department Aide, he does his work from the front desk, greeting guests as they walk in. Essentially, he is the face of the center, and he loves every minute of it. When asked what his favorite part of the job is, he quickly replied: "“Everything. The clients. It’s just a fun place.”

Initially working in the Philadelphia Naval shipyard for 26 years, Hendricks was forced to retire when he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. While this may send some in to retirement, Hendricks decided to try something new.

"I went to school and took 13 courses at a school for people with disabilities. A part of the curriculum was a 90 day internship. When the time came I had a couple choices- either go to the Better Business Bureau, or the Rec Department, and I decided on the Rec Department. At the conclusion of the internship they offered me a job, which I accepted.”

After three years with the Rec Department, he was assigned to the Carousel House. He handles a number of responsibilities, from the phone to paperwork to computer work, all with an eager, can-do attitude. But he gets most excited when it comes to the fun events that are put on for the clients.

“The Halloween dance is when the clients, they dress in their costumes and it’s just a big, fun evening. The dance starts and 6:30 and it concludes at 9:30. We give out prizes to the best costume, which the clients themselves select. Scott is the DJ.”

By Rebecca Bleznak and Ethan Chideckel
Group 11 Mantua/Parkside