Career Services held their 21st Annual Awards Dinner & Recognition Ceremony on May 6th at Trattoria Giuseppe in Edgemont. The dinner is held each year to recognize the achievements of Career Services participants and contributions made by community partners to build a strong and diverse workforce.
This year we recognized the following community partners and participants:
[singlepic id=234 w=180 h=100 float=left]Pathways PA received the Educator of the Year Award for their support of individuals with disabilities in furthering their education. They continually go above and beyond to meet the needs of those we serve by offering supports focused on the common goal of helping individuals achieve self-sufficiency and personal well-being.
[singlepic id=229 w=180 h=100 float=left]Brandywine YMCA was honored as Supervisory Team of the Year for their partnership with Career Services to ensure a successful work environment for our participants. They operate with an understanding of the importance in providing a supportive work environment and seek to provide opportunities for advancement and long-term success.
[singlepic id=228 w=180 h=100 float=left]The Kmart in Wayne received the Employer of the Year for their dedication to hiring and supporting individuals with disabilities in the workplace. They have demonstrated that Supported Employment practices works best when the participant, program supports and employer work together to achieve a successful outcome.
[singlepic id=231 w=180 h=100 float=left]The New Employment Award recognized two individuals that have recently started working in their chosen employment field. Crystal Moody is a very dynamic, resourceful and energetic individual who was determined in her job search. Crystal became employed as a part-time Security Guard with Contemporary Service Corporation at PPL Park in February 2015. Nathan Mumper recently became employed as a Recovery Support Specialist at Chester County Community Crossroads. Although he was steadily employed for the last few years in the retail field, he decided to take a risk and make a career change. Nathan can now use his own recovery experience to help others.
The Student of the Year Award recognized two individuals who have excelled in their academic achievements.
Kenneth Kingdon-Korab is in his first year pursuing his Associate’s Degree at Delaware County Community College. Kenneth shows drive and determination in his studies by utilizing campus supports and keeping regular meetings with his Career Specialist. We are confident he will go far. Matthew Pellegrini is finishing up his Associate’s Degree at Delaware County Community College and plans to pursue his Bachelor’s Degree at West Chester University starting in the fall. Matthew has a passion for Journalism and his career goal is to become a Writer/Editor with a textbook publishing company.
The Peer Support Award recognized two individuals who have demonstrated an understanding of the importance of peer support in their mental health recovery.
[singlepic id=233 w=180 h=100 float=left]Khadija Aouidi graduated from the Certified Peer Specialist training and joined Career Services in 2014. She is originally from Morocco and is currently working to improve her English skills to master the role of being a Certified Peer Specialist (CPS).
[singlepic id=232 w=180 h=100 float=left]Sharon Morelli is someone who, regardless of what is going on her own life, always attends and participates in the Career Services workshops. She cheers on other participants and offers encouragement, thoughtful feedback and praise.
The Marc Kravitz Award is sponsored by the Marc Kravitz Memorial Fund to recognize two individuals who show particular spirit and determination in achieving their employment goals.
[singlepic id=235 w=180 h=100 float=left]Antonia Blythe is a dedicated employee, volunteer, and community leader & organizer who is committed to making a difference in the lives of others. She has volunteered for two years with the Epilepsy Foundation, worked as a Sunday School Teacher with her local church and has been successfully employed with Student Transportation of America as a bus monitor since September 2014.
Shaun Rigdon is an experienced Driver who shows a dedication and commitment to his work. Despite the demands of the job, he often goes the extra mile to complete a job well-done. He has also stayed committed to his wellness by utilizing the support of his Career Specialist and other supports.