(As submitted by Wood County Developmental Disabilities)
Inclusion works in Bowling Green, Ohio. From restaurants to retail stores, Bowling Green employers are inclusive of individuals with disabilities.
With October being National Disability Employment Awareness Month, businesses are celebrating the many contributions of workers with disabilities. Businesses profit by having a wider variety of skills and talents to confront challenges, innovate, and create opportunities.
The Cinemark Woodland Mall Cinema 5 in Bowling Green benefits from their employee, Geoff Dennis, through his caring and considerate attitude. Dennis has worked at Cinemark as an usher for over 20 years. He is a prompt employee, always ready to work on time. He is quick to act when he notices that people need help, whether it be finding the correct theater and seats within, or carrying trays of concession snacks.
“I love helping others,” Dennis said. “I hope people think of our theatre as the perfect place to go because they know that we take good care of the theatre and its customers.”
Similarly, Kroger on Main Street has employed Lisa Claybaugh for 27 years. With such a depth of experience, Lisa is able to share her knowledge of Kroger with incoming employees. Furthermore, customers have become familiar with Lisa and look forward to seeing her when they come in to shop.
“Lisa has great personable skills,” said Claybaugh’s supervisor, Kim Bushman. “She knows customers by name and greets them with a warm smile.”
These employment positions not only have a positive impact on the businesses, but also on the lives of the employees with disabilities. Employment provides an opportunity to work in and be a part of the Bowling Green community.
“I like working with people. I get along well with my coworkers and customers of Kroger,” Lisa said.
The National Disability Employment Awareness Month campaign educates about disability employment issues and encourages employers of all industries to review their inclusion policies within the workforce. Through policies, businesses like Cinemark and Kroger are able to foster a diverse and inclusive work environment that considers all needs and skills.
Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ways to promote its message by visiting www.dol.gov/ndeam.
