October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Being valued for your work is important to everyone. We all want an opportunity to be productive members of our community and advance economically.
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and the Center for Independence would like to share these stories showcasing the talents people bring to their employment.  

Patrick Herman
Patrick Herman works at Avera McKennan in Miller where he was recently recognized as an Avera Legacy Ambassador for his 25 years of employment.  
Herman received training in building maintenance when he lived in Nemo, prior to moving to Miller. His job includes mopping, vacuuming the floor and sanitizing to keep things clean for the patients.  
He says, “I like working here because I am appreciated. I tell people that I would not work anywhere else.  I am trained to do this and am happy to do my job.”        

Jennifer Phillips
Jennifer Phillips has worked at Burger King for five months, and during this time she has been awarded Employee of the Month, two separate times.
When asked about her job, Jennifer said, “I love it. I have learned how to use the cash register and work at the drive-through window taking customer orders. I also stock supplies and have learned how to cook the french fries. My boss is awesome and treats me well. I like keeping busy and learning new things.”  

James Gose
James Gose has had a job at the Huron Post Office for over 32 years. He currently works 20 hours a week and his job entails janitorial duties including sweeping the floors, cleaning the bathrooms and taking out the trash.  He said that he cleans the main floor of the post office, mainly in the back.  
When asked about his job, Gose said, “I really like my job and how close it is to where I live.  I get along well with my co-workers and have made friends at work.”  
When asked why he decided to work there so long ago, he said he couldn’t remember why, but that he has never considered looking for a different job since he likes it so much.

Kelly Freese
Kelly Freese works at SunQuest Healthcare Center and has been there 20 years.  When Freese first started there, she worked in the kitchen doing dishes.  She decided that she wanted a change and tried her hand at working in the laundry room.  
Freese says, “I like working in the laundry room and working with everyone there.  It is nice when everyone comes in to say hi to me.  I also sweep floors in the dining area and can talk to the people who live there.  I have a lot of fun working there and never want to quit.  I am able to go on trips using the money I make at work.”

A job gives people income, confidence, independence and a sense of accomplishment.  A community’s fabric is woven by the opportunities it provides, and employment for people with disabilities is an important part of our community’s fabric.  
When you employ people with disabilities, you strengthen our community and foster independence.  
If you would like to visit about providing an employment opportunity, please contact Maurita Kolousek at the Center for Independence at 352-5698.