From Harford County government:
The Harford County Commission on Disabilities’ Employment Committee is now accepting nominations for awards to be presented at its Annual Awards Luncheon marking Disability Employment Awareness Month in October. The luncheon will be held on Thursday, October 21, 2010 at noon at the Maryland Golf and Country Clubs in Bel Air.
“The awards highlight the accomplishments of employees with disabilities in our community and recognizes the employers who give them the opportunity to join the workforce,” said Committee Co-Chair Jackie Angerhofer. “The committee also spotlights individuals, businesses, and organizations that promote the hiring of persons with disabilities.”
The official theme for October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month, “Talent Has No Boundaries: Workforce Diversity INCLUDES Workers With Disabilities,” reminds the public that workers with disabilities represent a diverse and vibrant talent pool for hire. Anyone can nominate – whether you are a supervisor, friend, patron, acquaintance, or a co-worker. If you know of a person, business, or organization that has truly made an impact, please fill out a nomination form. Online nomination forms can be found at www.harfordcountymd.gov/services/disabilities (click on “Nominate a Winner!”). It only takes a minute to nominate someone who has worked daily to make a difference, or a business/organization that has gone above and beyond to help change a life.
Nominations are now being accepted in six categories:
Employee of the Year: Given to an individual with a disability who has exhibited exceptional ability and determination in entering or re-entering the workforce or maintaining employment.
Employer of the Year: Given to recognize the extent and effectiveness ofthe nominee’s activities in promoting employment opportunities for qualified individuals with disabilities beyond what is mandated by federal, state, and local laws.
Harford County Student Worker of the Year: Presented to a Harford County student enrolled in high school, college, or a vocational training program that has a work component as part of the program.
Accessibility Award: Recognizes businesses, facilities, programs, and services in Harford County that have improved the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through accessibility and availability. Nominations may include a new or renovated building or a public place made more accessible though design or program consideration.
Ruth Helen Thompson Memorial Community Service Award: Given to recognize an individual, organization, agency, or facility that is doing an outstanding job in helping to include individuals with disabilities in employment or community activities.
Media Award: Given to an individual or organization who/which has significantly contributed throughout the year with programming, media coverage, or sponsorship of advertisement to promote or change attitudes toward individuals with disabilities.
For more information or to obtain a nomination form in another format, contact the Harford County Department of Community Services’ Disabilities Coordinator, Sharon Grzanka at 410-638-3373 voice/TTY. The deadline to submit a nomination is September 8, 2010.
The Harford County Commission on Disabilities was established in 1995 to serve as the voice of the disability community in Harford County. Members are appointed by the County Executive, with the approval of the County Council. The Harford County Department of Community Services was established in 1979 via Executive Order and works daily to meet the needs of our seniors, youth, persons with disabilities and those struggling to overcome addiction. The Department works with federal, state, local and private agencies to ensure our county continues to evolve and remains dedicated to providing the best possible services for our citizens and community.
