Unboxed & Unlimited
When a problem arises, Freddie Epperson looks forward to coming up with a solution. He’s been with Walmart for 10 years at Store 1105 in his hometown of North Little Rock, Arkansas. He’s worked his way up to Customer Service Manager, where problem-solving happens almost daily.
“I just try to bring a positive outlook, a positive attitude about everything and to try to help people think outside the box,” Freddie said.
Thinking outside the box has been a lifelong journey for Freddie. When he was born, he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a disorder that affects motor skills and neurological capabilities. What some might see as disadvantages brought on by the disorder, Freddie sees as opportunities.
“It hasn’t stopped me from achieving any of my goals, but what it has taught me is that if I present myself as a person with a disability that’s all society is going to see,” Freddie said.
During his thriving career at Walmart, Freddie has also thrived in school. He has earned two bachelor’s degrees: one in criminal justice and one in psychology; and a master’s degree in public administration.
This year, Freddie is hoping to inspire others who have disabilities. He’s in the working stages of launching a nonprofit organization called Beyond Our Limitations. Freddie wants it to become a networking support system for people with disabilities. Freddie says he hopes to one day travel to schools to bring his message to the next generation.
“As a person with a disability, when I was growing up, I didn’t see a role model out there for me. It was put on my heart to become that role model for the next generation of young people with disabilities.”
- Freddie Epperson
“I want to challenge people to think deeper and not go off of your first impression of an individual,” Freddie said.
As Freddie finished describing what he wants to achieve with his new nonprofit, he reverted back to the one person who has helped him achieve so much already. His mom, Ruby.
“She’s really the driving force for who I am,” Freddie said with a smile. “She never raised me to feel as if I had a disability… no matter what I wanted to do, she never told me ‘no’ or told me that I couldn’t do it.”
Moving forward, Freddie continues to think outside the box. Where there are no limits.
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