Special Event for Companies Striving to Help Those With Developmental Disabilities

Ed Lynch Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Several Long Island business owners are being honored through their approach to helping bring awareness to developmental disabilities, as well as their wilingness to have an inclusive workforce. This celebration will be held on October 17th at the Huxley Theater at the New York State Museum in Albany, NY. This event is hosted by the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) where they will honor five exceptional businesses that are committed to the work of providing meaningful employment to people with this type of disability. New this year, the state will also recognize two high schools that excel at transitioning students with developmental disabilities from school into employment.

The annual Works for Me celebration will be from 10 am to noon, with WNYT-TV Channel 13 Meteorologist Bob Kovachick will serve as master of ceremonies.

This wonderful event is entering into its fifth year of raising awareness of the benfits of working with those who have developmental disabilities. The Works for Me event is held in October to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), and is free to the general public.

With respect and pride, Commissioner Courtney Burke said “People with developmental disabilities have a lot to contribute to the community. Like all New Yorkers, they want opportunities to work and be engaged in their communities. OPWDD is committed to providing the services and supports necessary for individuals with developmental disabilities to be a part of New York State’s workforce. Currently, more than 9,800 individuals with developmental disabilities are employed. We are working to double that number in the years to come. Employment is not only beneficial to individuals with disabilities but it is also good for businesses, helping their bottom line.”

The 2012 Honorees for recognition during this year's event are;

• Nonprofit/Government Employer of the Year: The Watertown Family YMCA, Watertown, NY. 
• Small Employer of the Year:  Amnon’s Pizza, Brooklyn, NY.
• Medium Employer of the Year: Paramount Land, Islip, NY.
• Large Employer of the Year: The Turning Stone Resort and Casino, Vernon, NY
• Corporate Employer of the Year: Durham School Services, Canandaigua, NY.
• Youth Transition Award:  Carmel High School, Patterson, NY.
• Youth Transition Award: Calhoun High School, Long Island, NY.

Edwardl@longislandyellowpages.com

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