The Kansas City Chiefs are well known for players like quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce (the latter of whom is in a relationship with pop star Taylor Swift), and tens of thousands of fans stream to Arrowhead Stadium to see their beloved NFL team play during football season. But the team isn’t alone in bringing joy to the fans. A group of employees with Down syndrome is making a big difference, too.
The Kansas City Star highlighted these employees in a recent feature, noting that one in particular — Madison Millentree — is particularly beloved by fans, and is even seen as a ‘good luck charm’ for the Chiefs. In her time working for the team, the Chiefs have won three consecutive AFC Championship Game appearances and two Super Bowls. She, along with 17 other employees, work for the Chiefs in partnership with Down Syndrome Innovations (DSI), an organization which provides support and resources for Kansans with Down syndrome, including employment opportunities.
Underemployment is a major problem for many people with disabilities, as is being underpaid. The employment rate for people with disabilities is just over 21%, compared to 65% for able-bodied Americans, and it’s still legal for people with disabilities to be paid less than minimum wage, though that may soon be changing. A Government Accountability Office report found that over 100,000 employees were paid less than minimum wage as of 2019; half of are paid less than $3.50 per hour, and about 10% are paid less than $1 an hour, which disability rights groups have noted is exploitative.
Because of this, an opportunity to find meaningful employment with fair pay is a big deal for many disabled Americans.
Amanda Myers, employment coordinator with DSI, said each employee with Down syndrome is assigned to an area where they will thrive; Myers analyzes their skill sets and strengths, and recommends positions that will work best for each of them.
“We’ve always had to cater to many different types of personalities and needs, but this is one that is new to us,” Caitlin Petit, the Chiefs’ director of event services, told the Kansas City Star. “It’s been an eye-opening experience when you might think that these individuals aren’t going to thrive in such a loud, exciting environment, and you see them just come alive.”
She added, “(Myers) helped us figure out what different types of reminders they might need, like setting their alarm when it’s time to go on their lunch break or making sure they don’t drink too many sodas during the game, which is always a challenge with any of out [sic] staff members.”
Many of the employees scan tickets and help guests on game day, typically for over six hours until half time, when their shift is officially over. The team ensures that the employees have set schedules and routines set in place.
“All of our individuals are so proud to work for the Chiefs that it’s all they can talk about,” Myers said. “Everyone’s like, ‘When’s next the game?’ When am I working?’ Everyone’s really eager to get back to the stadium.”
