Meko Thadison’s secret to good customer service is patience and a smile.

Thaddeus Edmonson Sr., founder and president of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee of the Pine Belt, presented the 29-year-old with the group’s Salute to Greatness Award earlier this month.

Edmonson met Thadison at St. Andrew’s Thrift Store when he presented Thadison’s coworker, Cassie May, with the same award in January. He regularly looks for workers at restaurants and retail establishments who he feels deserves the recognition, Thadison said. He believes he was chosen because of his attitude and work ethic.

“I’m patient, especially with the older community,” he said. “I just love working here.”

As the only male employee at the thrift store, most of the heavy lifting of the donated furniture falls to him.

“I don’t really complain about it. I just do it and get it done,” Thadison said. “Come every day with a smile. He (Edmonson) just noticed it. I think everybody notices it.”

The Bogue Chitto man has worked at St. Andrew’s for about a year and it’s his first job in retail.

Assistant Manager Mary Ann Arthur said Thadison is a natural at customer service.

“He makes customers feel so welcome when they walk in here,” she said.

For more information on the committee or awards, email Dr.MLKJrCPMs@gmail.com or call 769-227-1853.