As we continue celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) during October, we also recognized Aramark, who has a Food Service contract throughout the Ballston Spa Central School District, as another business partner who understands and embraces the benefits of hiring and training people with disabilities.

We presented Aramark with a certificate for their commitment in supporting our individuals. Pictured front row (from left to right): Saratoga Bridges Placement Specialist Debra Woods, High School Manager Karen Jennings, Middle School Manager Patti Howard, (holding certificate) Food Service Director Linda Davis, Steven Zebrowski, Christina Wallace and Melissa Smith.

Linda Davis says, “The Saratoga Bridges Employment Specialists are great to partner with!  The individuals we have hired really are motivated and like to work.  I am very happy to be able to offer them an opportunity to be employed.”

“We are very grateful to Aramark for hiring 3 individuals we support,” said Pamela Polacsek, our Communications Specialist.  The 3 employees all have extremely positive things to say.

Melissa (left) says, “I like talking to the kids and getting to know the staff. I find it very joyful and love going to the work.”

Christina (right) adds, “I truly love what I do.  It keeps me busy, gives me a paycheck and allows me to have developed friendship with great co-workers.”  Steven feels the same way, “I really like the people and my position.”

“As a business partner, Aramark has demonstrated an understanding of the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities. We want the community to know that Aramark views people with and without disabilities the same in the workplace. Their contributions and skills are valued. Saratoga Bridges greatly appreciates these supportive community partnerships. Our collaborative efforts ensure the success of all members of our community.”

National Disability Employment Awareness Month was first enacted by Congress in 1945 and later re-named and re-purposed in 1988. The goal of the month is to raise public awareness of the capabilities, talents and competences American workers with disabilities have. The October 2015 NDEAM carries the theme of ‘My disability is one part of who I am!’