Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Every October, Ontario ARC and other organizations across the country celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month.  This designated month puts the spotlight on the employment of people with disabilities and the valuable contributions these individuals make to America's workplace and economy.  To "celebrate" via blog, we'll be introducing you to the stories of people working right here in Ontario County.  Enjoy!

The crew working with LeChase Construction at FLCC

This past April, a work crew of the agency's participants assisted LeChase Construction, LCC with its cleanup operations at Finger Lakes Community College.  The college recently added an 80,000-square-foot addition to its campus. 

This particular work crew had their work cut out for them.  The clean up was an extremely important part of the process, as the company was seeking Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation.  LEED is an internationally recognized green building certificate system with very strict guidelines for all phases of construction -- including cleanup.    The workers assisted at the site three times a week cleaning up debris inside and outside the building shell.

"Ontario ARC's workers are doing a very good job -- they are always on time and motivated to help.  As soon as we provided the participants with safety training, hard hats and a tour of the site, the were ready to go to work."
                   Jim Wasley, project manager, LeChase Construction

Abbey Employment Services -- the agency's employment and job support services -- has people just like the LeChase work crew, who can make a positive impact on your business.  To learn more about hiring people with disabilities, contact Abbey Employment Services at (585) 919-2141.