October 20, 2023

Thriving at Work

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Sutton, a BDI employee, at his workplace, with his stepmom

Enter the National Detector Dog Training Center (NDDTC) and you will glimpse your own reflection in the sparkling clean hallway floor. Not a single speck of dust can be found on the polished furniture. Everything is organized and comfortably placed in its specified spot.

One of the people responsible for maintaining the squeaky-clean facility is Sutton, an exceptional young individual whom his manager describes as a top performer. Sutton was born at only 25 weeks, and arriving early took its toll. He won his first battle in life and returned home to his parents after three months in the neonatal intensive care unit. While in the hospital, he received a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy.

Sutton is unstoppable. He is now 24 years old. He has been with BDI for two years now and takes immense pride in his job. Despite his shift not starting until 2:30 PM, he is always ready to take on his responsibilities, often arriving 30 minutes early. He enjoys mopping, meeting the dog trainers and spending time with his co-workers.


“I want to provide the dog trainers with a clean place to work. I hope that Bobby Dodd Institute has more opportunities for me. BDI is a great company, and I like having this job.”

Sutton B.

Sutton dreams of a self-sustainable future where he can manage his own finances and household. Currently, he is focused on improving his math skills to better prepare himself for handling his own money.

Read the full story in our Annual Report

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