James Garcia, Tecumseh High School class of 2014, is this week’s nominee of the Arrow Alumni feature.

As a student at Tecumseh, Garcia participated in the Work Study program, an elective class designed to prepare students for employment. He worked in the school cafeteria and at Community Markets in Park Layne. He also participated in Special Olympics at the local level playing basketball, bowling, and running track. He continues to enjoy bowling and track and playing video games.

Following graduation, Garcia was officially hired by Community Markets. According to store manager Jim Huggins, Garcia is a hard worker who takes initiative and direction well. “James is never idle; he gets along with everyone and everyone gets along with him,” said Huggins.

As one of the local community partners with Tecumseh Schools, Community Markets sponsor the Community Cash program. Customers are encouraged to save receipts and turn those in to participating non-profit organizations, including schools. Community Markets donate 1% of qualifying purchases to these groups. The Work Study class uses these funds to offset costs associated with operating the Arrow Store, purchase supplies for craft projects, and to donate to other organizations within the school. Receipts may be turned in to the main office or the Arrow Store at the high school. The New Carlisle Community Markets franchise is located at 610 McAdams Drive.