Secretary of the Maryland Department of Disabilities, Carol Beatty, on behalf of Governor Larry Hogan, recognized Homestead Manor in Denton, Md., and Home Depot in Annapolis for striving to increase inclusive community work opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
“During National Disabilities Employment Awareness Month, and all year long, we want to highlight how employers are helping people in the disabilities community use their talents and are really making a difference,” said Beatty.
Both Homestead Manor and Home Depot employ adults a part of Benedictine’s Adult Services program. For Leonard Green, the director of environmental operations at Homestead, working with Nick, a Benedictine client, has been a win-win.
“Nick brings with him a smiling face every day, and we are so glad he is a part of the team,” said Green. “We learn from each other and I would encourage any business to explore new possibilities – I am certainly glad we took the opportunity with Nick.”
The Governor’s Citation also recognizes the role employer’s play in bringing a stronger and more competitive economic environment to all the residents of Maryland, including those with disabilities, and for ensuring that those individuals have the same opportunities to live, work and thrive in their communities.
For 16 years the Home Depot in Annapolis has employed two pro-loaders, Mike and Mike, who proudly wore their orange work aprons during the award ceremony.
Since 1982 Benedictine’s Adult Services program has been supporting community living and independent living skills and employment resources for people with developmental disabilities.
