Ambitious Hike



Jhaquiel Reagan - photo provided

 It is often said that "Good help is hard to find."  That's why Indianapolis restaurant owner, Art Bouvier, was so impressed when he observed teenager, Jhaquiel Reagan,  walking 10 miles in freezing weather and snow to a minimum wage job interview at a Dairy Queen. The two had crossed paths accidentally when the 18 year old stopped in the Papa Roux parking lot to verify directions. Bouvier noted that there were still 6 or 7 more miles ahead and that Reagan ought to take the bus. Unfortunately, Reagan knew he didn't have bus fare so he just kept right on walking. The young man was no stanger to adversity since he had been taking care of his younger siblings since their mom had passed away two years earlier.

When Bouvier observed Reagan still walking some 20 minutes down the road, he knew he had to step in and offer the youth a ride the rest of the way. He was also a great judge of character and understood that someone with this much drive would be an excellent employee. He made him a second offer - a job offer at the Papa Roux cajun cafe. Reagan accepted and the story was posted on Facebook. The story went viral! IndyGo, the Indianapolis public transportation authority, has donated a year's supply of bus passes to Jhaqueil. Other donations continued pouring in and the pair have created a foundation to help other underprivileged teens who are looking for work.

Jhaquiel Reagan is delighted with his new job and I'll guess Art Bouvier is enjoying the benefits of a hardworking employee as well as priceless exposure for his restaurant, and most of all the knowledge that he followed his heart and it guided him well.