Workplace Summer 2012

August 2011

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Summer 2012

Nate Brown:William M. Usdane National Award Winner

Former Commanding Offi cer of USS John F. Kennedy Joins Chimes DC

National C

onference Is

sue

NISH

Workplace

Summer 2012 | 3

Opening Session of Conference

Employee Awards

Customer Awards

AbilityOne Network Awards

NCWC Award

Awards Banquet Emcee

Community Awards

Big Idea Exchange

NISH Academy

Hats Off

On the cover: Nate Brown addresses attendees at the NISH Awards Banquet after accepting the William M. Usdane Award.

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William Coleman, Jr., Chair

E. Robert ChamberlinPresident and CEO, NISH

NISH Board of DirectorsElmer Cerano, Immediate Past ChairPaul Atkinson, Chair Elect Frederick Beaman, SecretaryBrenda Yarnell, TreasurerJerry Bettenhausen Peter BernsDean EmersonFrederick FreseJim Gibbons David GonzalesStephen Katsurinis Steven KingMike KivitzAmy LuttrellThomas MillerRhea Nelson Barbara NurenbergSteve PerdueBelinda Porras Wes Tyler Frederick Williams

Editorial CommitteePaul AtkinsonMegan BranchNancyellen GentileGisele McAuliffeJay Thomas Lisa WardTony Young

Managing Editor Vatrice Jones [email protected]

Contributing Feature Writers Chianti Cleggett Rachel Crowell Sarah Gray Heather Loveridge Gisele McAuliffe

Volume 37, No. 7Summer 2012Workplace is published by NISH, 8401 Old Courthouse Road, Vienna, VA 22182. NISH is a nonprofit organization that supports the AbilityOne® Program to assist nonprofit agencies in employing people with significant disabilities by obtaining federal contracts. If you would like additional information on any subject in Workplace, contact Vatrice Jones at [email protected]. Address corrections or additions should be mailed to the managing editor at the above address; please include the old mailing label. Reproduction of material in Workplace with permission is encouraged.

President’s Message

E. Robert Chamberlin NISH President and CEO

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“ There is no simple

formula for creating

more employment

opportunities in this

environment, but

persistence is one key

ingredient in making

these jobs happen.”

Independence Day, the AbilityOne Program…and PersistenceSometimes we get so caught up in the issues of the day we forget just how fortunate we are to live in this country. We recently celebrated “the 4th of July” with family outings, fireworks displays, vacations, or a variety of other activities. We were able to do whatever we chose to do because of what the Indepen-dence Day holiday commemorates-the signing and adoption of the Declaration of Independence. So while the holiday is a chance “to celebrate and have a good time”, it’s really about freedom. A few of my favorite quotes about the freedoms we enjoy:

“How little do my countrymen know what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other people on earth enjoy.” Thomas Jefferson

“It is easy to take liberty for granted, when you have never had it taken from you.” Author unknown, sometimes attributed to M. Grundler

“America is much more than a geographical fact. It is a political and moral fact –the first community in which men set out in principle to insti-tutionalize freedom, responsible govern-ment, and human equality.” Adlai Stevenson

In addition to sometimes taking for granted Independence Day and the freedoms it represents, we sometimes take for granted the Javits Wagner O’Day Act. It is in fact some of the best legislation ever written for the employment of people who are blind or have other significant disabilities. While people with disabilities continue to face challenges in the U.S., many countries lag behind us in basic rights and services for people with disabili-ties; and AbilityOne® is recognized by many countries as a model for employ-ing people with disabilities.

NISH is a member of Workability International, an organization where

representatives from many countries exchange ideas and best practices. AbilityOne is frequently the topic of conversation in these meetings. A few weeks ago, Mr. Munenori Kawamata, President of the nonprofit organization Japan Center, talked about legislation they had been pursuing for years and indicated it was close to passage. He went on to say “thank you to NISH for your assistance over the last few years” in supporting their visits to the United States to understand AbilityOne. Last week I was notified that “the Law concerning the Promotion of Public Preferential Procurement for Persons with Disabilities has been passed in the Upper House and is enacted next year!”

Through Workability International, we have also had many visits from the Australians to study how our program works. After numerous meetings, two years ago I was asked by Patrick Maher, Pres and CEO of National Disability Services and Chairman of Workability International, to meet with two Members of Parliament as well as a representative from the Prime Minister’s Office to discuss how NISH and the AbilityOne Program are structured. I am happy to report that Australia now has an employment program modeled on AbilityOne.

In both Japan and Australia the key to successful legislation was persistence; it was also key in the Declaration of Independence and the Javits Wagner O’Day Act. All of these efforts were underway for years before something was actually enacted. Currently, we are in an extremely challenging environment for growing employment opportunities for people with signifi-cant disabilities. There is no simple formula for creating more employment opportunities in this environment, but persistence is one key ingredient in making these jobs happen. H

2012 NISH Conference

(Left) NISH Board Chair Bill Coleman, Jr. welcomes attendees to his hometown, Indianapolis, Ind., for the 2012 NISH National Training & Achievement Conference during the opening session.


Mandy Harvey, Denver, Colo. citizen, delivers a vocal performance during the opening session. Harvey’s love for music and singing has been years in the making. She was selected as the top female vocalist of her high school and entered the Music Education program at Colorado State University. During her freshman year she lost her hearing and left the university.

Though her hearing loss is profound (110 decibels in each ear) her timing, pitch and passion are perfect. In 2011 she was awarded the VSA International Soloist award and she continues to perform around the country bringing joy through music.

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(Top) Attendees give a standing ovation to opening session performers.

(Above Right) Anthony (Tony) Poleo, U.S. AbilityOne Commission™ chairperson, shares with the audience the goal of the program when he says, “Every day we need to remember who we serve. This is not about us. This is about growing employment and making sure we are serving those people who are counting us as they go forward.”

(Left) Singer Justin Hines wrapped up the opening session with wonderful vocals. One of his songs, “Say What You Will,” is a number one hit in South Africa.

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Soulful singer Justin Hines entered a vocal competition at 14 years of age at a basketball game in his hometown. He won a vocal competition and his world opened up before him. Thrown in the deep end, Hines realized he could not only survive, but thrive.

Hines lives with Larsen Syndrome, a joint dislocation condition that confines him to a wheelchair. While Hines admits his condition has provided challenges, he primarily sees the good it has brought him and the inspiration he can provide others. That optimism permeates much of his three albums, including his American debut, “Days to Recall.”

NISH President and CEO Bob Chamberlin extends a token of thanks to Keynote Speaker Derek Daly with an American flag.

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AbilityOne Honor Roll for Veterans with Disabilities Award Winner Th is award recognizes a service disabled veteran with a signifi cant disability who has exhibited outstanding achievement in his/her work life.

Steve Hoffman, a wounded warrior who sustained several service-connected physical injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder during Operation Desert Storm, has proven himself to be an effective teacher, manager and mentor bring-ing co-workers under his wing and training new AbilityOne hires – all during his first year of AbilityOne employment. A top producer for his employer ServiceSource in Wilming-ton, Del., where he works on a U.S.

Department of Defense Contract Management Support Services project, Hoffman brings the skills he learned in the military to bear acting not only as a team leader, but as a team player, to help his co-workers be successful and meet their profes-sional goals.

“Steve has shown that employers should focus on a veteran’s abili-ties as an asset to any organiza-tion rather than focusing on their disabilities as a hindering factor in their achievements,” explains Dennis Dapolito executive director of ServiceSource Delaware. “Despite the trials, hardships and physical and psychological effects of war he has faced, Steve is an optimist. He

is a prime example of the tenac-ity, integrity and hard work of the Wounded Warrior—realizing both career achievement and fulfillment as a mentor of his peers.”

For more information on Steve Hoff man, please visit: www.vimeo.com/nishconf H

Employee Awards

Steve Hoffman

ServiceSourceWilmington, Del.

Steve Hoffman accepts the 2011 AbilityOne® Honor Roll for Veterans with Disabilities Award from Bob Chamberlin, NISH President & CEO and Bill Coleman, Jr., NISH Board chair.

Pictured from left to right: Bob Chamberlin, NISH President & CEO; Steve Hoffman, ServiceSource and Bill Coleman, Jr., NISH Board chair.

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William M. Usdane National Award WinnerThis award recognizes an AbilityOne® Program employee with a significant disability who has exhibited outstanding achievement and exceptional character.

Nate Brown, who lost his sight in 2004, joined Goodwill Industries of Lower South Carolina (Charleston) in 2010 as a food service employee. Since that time, he has moved from sorting silverware, to working in food prep, to being promoted to the position of cook II—which includes chopping and cutting fruits and vegetables for meals and for the fruit bar. In addition to serving as a mentor and role model at Goodwill, Brown is also a camp counselor at Rock Bottom Retreat and Conference Center of the Blind.

“Nate’s ever present positive attitude is his greatest attribute. He leads by example on a daily basis, serving as a mentor for those individuals with disabilities that may not have as much confi dence and making a tremen-dous diff erence in the attitude of

others,” said Reginald Hughes, Vice President of Commercial Services at Palmetto Goodwill. “Nate wanted one thing when he started working with Goodwill—a chance to prove that he could make a diff erence and change people’s opinion about those who are blind. He has done that and he has been an inspiration.”

For more information on Nate Brown please visit: www.vimeo.com/nishconf H

Employee Awards

Nate Brown

Goodwill Industries of Lower South CarolinaCharleston, S.C.

Nate Brown, a food service employee with Goodwill Industries of Lower South Carolina, accepts the William M. Usdane National Award in recognition of his achievements.

After thanking team members at Goodwill of Lower South Carolina and the AbilityOne Program, Nate Brown applauds his wife by saying, “I would like to thank my wife…amazing woman that put up with me through everything.”

Pictured from left to right: Beverly Brown, Nate Brown’s spouse; Bob Chamberlin, NISH President & CEO; Nate Brown, Goodwill Industries of Lower South Carolina, Paula Jenkins, Goodwill Industries of Lower South Carolina and Bill Coleman, Jr., NISH Board chair.

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After a 1998 accident that shattered his legs, Marcelino Parra under-went numerous surgeries and was never expected to walk again. With determination and hard work, Parra got back on his feet and was hired through the AbilityOne Program by Professional Contract Services, Inc. of Austin, Texas in 2001. Parra was trained in hospital housekeep-ing and began working at the Evans Army Community Hospital (EACH) at Fort Carson, Colo.—quickly rising through the ranks from housekeeper, to trainer, and to crew leader. He transitioned out of the AbilityOne

Program in 2004 when he became a supervisor. From there he was again promoted several times, finally reaching the position of director of Hospital Housekeeping. As direc-tor, he spearheaded the effort to obtain LEED certification, which is now in “silver” status. Beyond his own rise, Parra has created a family atmosphere at EACH, taking a sincere interest in his employees’ morale and professional develop-ment and helping to mentor four of his employees with disabilities into management positions.

“Marc’s lone eff orts contributed to EACH being named a top nine Environmental Services Depart-ment of the Year for two consecutive years. Of all of the facilities across the country, EACH is the only military facility to earn this distinction and the only facility nationwide to earn it twice,” said EACH Chief of Environ-

mental Services Judith Darbyshire. “Marc’s willingness to share his goals, his passion for his work and his ability to work with all personnel to help them succeed make him a true partner in excellence.”

For more information on Marcelino Parra please visit: www.vimeo.com/nishconf H

Evelyne Villines National Award WinnerTh is award recognizes an individual with a signifi cant disability who has advanced from work on an AbilityOne® contract into a job with private/government sector employment or management within the nonprofi t agency.

Employee Awards

Marcelino Parra

Professional Contract Services, Inc.Austin, Texas

Marcelino Parra excelled in the workplace by moving from a housekeeper position in 2001 to a supervisor within three short years. He currently holds the position of director of Hospital Housekeeping.

Pictured from left to right: Bob Chamberlin, NISH President & CEO; Marcelino Parra, PCSI; Evelyne Villines, disability advocate and Bill Coleman, Jr., NISH Board chair.

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William M. Usdane Regional Award RecipientsThis award recognizes an individual with a significant disability who has exhibited outstanding achievement and exceptional character.

Employee Awards

William M. Usdane East Region AwardJoyce AndersonNational Telecommuting Institute, Inc.Boston, MA

Joyce Anderson produces medical documents quickly and efficiently while working from home for the National Telecommuting Institute, Inc. She is distinguished for her atten-tion to detail, high quality, meeting tight deadlines and seamlessly migrating between different clients. Her achievements are a shining example of how the door to profes-sional success can be opened via proper assistive devices and the AbilityOne® Program.

“Joyce’s commitment to quality work and her willingness to go the extra mile makes her a great part of the NTI team,” said Michelle Simone, director of Medical Transcription Services at NTI. “She is willing to transcribe whenever necessary to ensure a fast turnaround time for our clients while maintaining the highest quality results. She understands that NTI relies on her to provide superbly transcribed documents and she does so every day. She pays very close attention to, and keeps track of, many small details. She is dedicated, reliable and someone we can count on to help out when there is an extra volume of work or a fast-track request.”

Anderson was a teacher until an accident injured her spine causing T-4 paralysis. “With my disability I have a time-consuming routine, to get ready for the day,” Anderson said.

“My flexible job schedule helps me to take care of my daily rituals. At home, I have everything I need to care for myself, for example, I have to elevate my feet throughout the day, and this was not always possible working in an office environment.”

Typically, medical transcriptionists control the playback of recording via a foot pedal operated machine. To accommodate Anderson, a rehabili-tation engineer converted the foot pedal to a base that sets to the left of the computer keyboard. She operates it via a “sip-and-puff ” switch mouth-piece. “Rather than pressing a pedal to play and rewind the audio files, I simply breathe into the mouthpiece to play the audio file and puff to rewind,” Anderson said.

In her job, Anderson must transcribe complex medical terms spoken by individuals with varying dictation habits and dialects. She has to be proficient in researching terms via the Internet or hard copy and adept at multi-tasking, for example, being able to type on the computer while simultaneously listening, slowing down and speeding up an audio recording.

Outside of work, Anderson is very active member of her church. She is a member of ladies group and serves as treasurer. She also attends the Lutheran Women’s Mission-ary League meetings. “Through the ladies group, I help with bake sales, craft fairs, serving meals for the Kairos Prison Ministry, preparing numerous dinners and participat-ing in other activities,” Anderson said. “I also prepare bible studies and programs for our monthly meetings.”

Anderson advocates for herself, is very determined and constantly strives to do the very best. She is an inspiration to her supervisor and colleagues. “She is a valuable team member of the medical transcription department and proves that people with significant disabilities can be successful in all their endeavors—working, socializing and indepen-dent living,” Simone said.

William M. Usdane Pacific West Region Award

Steven IkeharaGoodwill Contract Services Hawaii, Inc.Honolulu, HI

Steven Ikehara refuses to allow any medical recommendation limit his professional goals and vision. He has

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become an outstanding general clerk for the Army Hawaii Single Soldier Housing (ASH) at Schofield Barracks by tackling every challenge with an indomitable: “I think I can,” “I will,” and “I can do” attitude. He is a high achiev-ing AbilityOne Program employee who stands as an excellent example of what an individual can achieve by steadfastly focusing on his abilities.

“Steven (Ikehara) always strives to do the very best in all he does,” said Kalani Motta, project manager at Goodwill Contract Services Hawaii, Inc. “He is a role model who is looking for solutions and refuses to take ‘no’ for an answer. He is humble and always eager to help a peer or a customer.”

After suffering a stroke in 2010 and losing the function of his right side, three doctors told Ikehara they did not believe he would ever be able to work again. Ikehara, however, believed otherwise and no matter what the doctors said he was deter-mined to become a wager earner once more. He worked hard in physical therapy and started looking for a job. He was overjoyed when Goodwill Contract Services Hawaii offered him the position of general clerk on an AbilityOne Program contract with ASH at Schofield Barracks. Incredibly, just seven months after the stroke, Ikehara was back at work performing multiple responsibilities such as inspecting rooms, cleaning and clerical duties.

Since starting his AbilityOne Program job in December 2010, Ikehara’s physical abilities have steadily improved, most notably, his walking and right hand functions. He made it a personal goal to use his right hand as much as possible at work in order to improve his motor skills and today he performs all of his daily tasks without accom-modations. Outside of work, Ikehara is involved in the local community and served as a volun-teer for the Special Olympics. He strives to do all the activities he enjoyed before his stroke includ-

ing tennis and weight lifting. He is now able to drive, carry his own groceries and strives to write with his right hand again. “I want to continue to improve my health and move forward with my recovery in hopes of one day being able to find work without my disability being a factor,” Ikehara declared.

Ikehara’s punctuality and attendance are excellent. His “can do” attitude is infectious and his dependability, desire to exceed expectations and outstand-ing quality of work have made him a shining role model. He can perform all of his responsibilities with little or no supervision and even takes time out to train new employees on certain tasks. He earns frequent praise from custom-ers because he never hesitates to do whatever it takes to meet an individ-ual’s needs. His high level of profes-sionalism sets an excellent example for others and his determination to succeed has had a positive impact on his peers, subordinates and superiors.

According to Motta, “All of us at Goodwill Contract Services Hawaii are very proud of Steven Ikehara for winning this prestigious award that recognizes his outstanding contribu-tions to the team and the superstar that he is.”

William M. Usdane Northwest Region Award

Brian PearsonSkookumJoint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM), Wash.

Brian Pearson loves cars. He knows how to repair them and fixing vehicles is his life-long career and passion. After a car accident resulted in a traumatic brain injury and short-term memory loss, it appeared Pearson’s days working as a mechanic might be over, but his own determination and the opportunity of employment via the AbilityOne Program have given Pearson back his ideal job and independence.

Pearson is employed by the nonprofit agency, Skookum, as a mechanic assigned to Skookum’s Fleet Mainte-nance division that services and repairs military equipment for the Army at Joint Base Lewis McChord in Washington State. He has been working there since 2002, but as a result of his short-term memory loss, he is challenged everyday to remember a long list of tasks he must perform. He does an excellent job and all of his colleagues appreciate and enjoy him.

According to Skookum Human Resources Manager Loretta Hamon, Pearson is unstoppable. “Brian’s personality enhances the workplace,” Hamon said. “His constant laughter and smile would brighten anyone’s day. He is persistent in completing the tasks he is assigned even though it can be frustrating at times. He is able to overcome the adversities that faces each day and the end result is a repaired military vehicle that he takes great pride in.”

Pearson demonstrates a strong desire to learn new skills and foster good working relationships. He has an outstanding job ethic and takes great pride in performing his responsibili-ties. He is a good listener, frequently interjects new ideas for improving the work process and readily volun-teers for overtime or to perform a

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Employee Awards

second shift. He always gives 100 percent on the job and strives to exceed expectations.

According to Hamon, Pearson is averse to accepting accommoda-tions and insists he does not wish to be treated differently from anyone else. “He is strong willed and taught me that no matter what happens, hang in there, ask for assistance and maintain a positive attitude. No matter what the workload or challenge, he has a great sense of humor and a smile.”

Pearson finally did accept one job accommodation. Based upon his own suggestion, he allowed Skookum to purchase a service cart to help him transport fluids to and from his work bay to prevent spillage.

After the auto accident that led to Pearson’s disability, he could not drive a car and lived with his mother so she could care for him. Over the years, he was able to move out on his own and regain the ability to drive. Outside of work, Pearson spends time with several lifelong friends as well as his family. He enjoys visit-ing Pike Place Market in Seattle and loves to feed peanuts to the squirrels around his home.

“Brian (Pearson) is a produc-tive, contributing member of our workforce and society,” Hamon said. “He is a truly wonderful person who was dealt a hand in life that might have led some people to give up. We have a phrase we commonly use at Skookum, ‘We Can Do It.’ Brian personifies that phrase everyday.”

William M. Usdane South Central Region AwardVictor PrassellGoodwill Industries of San AntonioSan Antonio, Texas

Victor Prasell never gives up. No matter how extremely hot or cold the weather may be while perform-ing landscape maintenance services, he never complains. To the contrary, one of his favorite remarks at work is: “Pitch in somehow, someway, always earn your keep.” He has an unusually warm and congenial manner and the ability to bond with virtually anyone. People are drawn to him and his engaging good humor like a magnet. His compas-sion and kindness distinguish him among his peers.

In the late 1980s, Prasell was an honors college student when an auto crash left him in a temporary coma and caused paralysis and mental impairment. Subsequently, he suffered from manic depression and addiction. Later, Prasell turned his life around and recently celebrated 21 years of sobriety. As a part of his recovery, he resolved to find a job and was employed by Goodwill Indus-tries of San Antonio. He started out, 13 years ago, performing litter pick up. Next, he achieved certification in janitorial services and finally transi-tioned to landscape services where he works today on an AbilityOne Program® contract at Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas.

“Victor (Prassell) focuses on his

abilities, not his disabilities,” said Mark McKeever, vice president of Work Services at Goodwill Industries of San Antonio, Texas. “Despite all that he has been through, he always thinks of others, not himself.” Prassell works outside the Center For The Intrepid and Fisher House, facili-ties that support wounded warriors and their families. “Not a day goes by that Victor (Prasell) doesn’t speak with wounded soldiers and person-ally thank them for their service,” McKeever said. “You always notice the smiles on their faces after their conversations with him.”

For the past two years Prassell has represented Goodwill Industries of San Antonio and the AbilityOne Program during the NISH annual grassroots advocacy effort in Washington, D.C. “The program could not have been better repre-sented,” McKeever said. “He has been employed for 13 years, all in a progressive fashion, and is a role model to those around him.”

Away from Goodwill, church and the local community are among Prassell’s top priorities. He is very involved in his church’s worship services, volun-teers for activities and attends church business meetings. He has pulled weeds, picked up trash and trans-ported furniture without being asked. He purchases books for children and the elderly and helps out at church socials for senior citizens. Prassell also enjoys helping to maintain a family ranch that spans 130 acres and supports nearly 30 head of longhorn cattle—fulfilling the traditional Texas dream of a parcel of land with cattle of your own.

Most outstanding of all, however, may be Prasell’s recognition and quiet encouragement of wounded warriors at Brooke Army Medical Center’s famed Center For The Intrepid. He helped create an ornate and drought resistant rock garden display at the Fisher House that honors soldiers injured in battle. His work on the

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project was exemplary, executed with great creativity and now provides beauty and tranquility to wounded warriors year-round.

William M. Usdane North Central Region Award

Tristan MattaWeaver IndustriesAkron, Ohio

Tristan Matta is a rising star and a testament to the transforma-tive power of employment via the AbilityOne Program. In just over two years, he has progressed from being extremely shy, introverted and displaying negative socializa-tion skills to a first-class employee of a secure document destruction operation. He has gained strong self-confidence and risen to the top among his peers.

When Matta starting out at Weaver Industries SecurShred in Akron, Ohio, his supervisor frequently had to locate and redirect him back to his workstation and the task of properly sorting paper. However, as he experi-enced success with his behavior and sorting skills, Matta earned additional responsibilities to include nearly every aspect of the secure shredding operation. Most recently, he was assigned to assist a customer

service representative and driver, requiring him to directly interact with customers.

Today, Matta performs tasks that require close attention to detail and interaction with critical clients, qualifying him for the position of assistant/helper on a secure document destruction truck. He understands the operation and what needs to be done to meet daily production and safety objectives. He has excellent leadership skills and his peers often rely on him for direc-tions or instruction. His vision of the future has expanded and he now looks forward to pursuing training in fields that he never would have considered prior to his AbilityOne job at Weaver-SecurShred.

“An example of Tristan’s leader-ship skill is evidenced at Weaver Industries’ Internal Revenue Service (IRS) secure document destruction contract,” said Jack Skinner, general manager, Weaver Industries, Inc. “Tristan typically leads this process. He makes sure all bins are accounted for and promptly placed onto the tipper for sorting. He places and removes the gaylords (off-site shred-ding containers) from the end of the sorter and keeps them organized. He loads the gaylords into the shredder and ties the bales. His diligence and efforts assure that the work is done quickly and accurately.”

Beyond his job responsibilities, Matta is distinguished for his compassionate and considerate character. For example, Matta pays close attention to one colleague who has significant mobility, vision and dexterity disabilities. He has taken that individual under his wing and makes sure that all of the person’s needs are met. He regularly spends lunch and break time with the colleague too. “What makes me proudest of Tristan (Matta) is how adept he is at meeting that individual’s physical, emotional and socialization needs,” Skinner

said. “By doing so, he is making his colleague’s experience of working at Weaver-SecurShred a happy and rewarding one.”

During his free time, Matta enjoys camping and spends many weekends with family and friends at various campsites in Ohio. His other interests include working on his car, listening to music and playing video games. As a result of the independence and confidence he has experienced on the job, Matta recently expressed interest in finding an apartment and living alone. Additionally, he has begun to research course offerings at trade schools and has expressed an interest in obtaining certification in preci-sion CNC machining (metal work fabrication) or auto mechanics. H

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Evelyne Villines Regional Award RecipientsThis award recognizes an individual with a significant disability who has advanced from work on an AbilityOne® contract into a job with private/government sector employment or management within the nonprofit agency (NPA).

Evelyne Villines North Central Region Award

Michael HerringGoodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin, Inc.Milwaukee, Wisc.

Michael Herring credits the AbilityOne Program for saving his life. Since 2000, he has evolved from a homeless veteran with significant disabilities to the dining facility manager of the USS John F Kennedy barracks located at Naval Station Great Lakes where he is responsible for food procurement, the supervi-sion of 85 employees and the prepa-ration of up to 3,500 meals per day.

“Michael has an infectious person-ality and takes great pride in his accomplishments as well as those of his staff,” said Terry VanParys, director of Support Services at Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin, Inc. “He reflects upon everything he has been through as he encourages his employees to do their best and reach higher.”

Before Herring became an AbilityOne Program employee for Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wiscon-sin, Inc. assigned to Great Lakes, Ill. his health was poor (and would later require surgery), he distrusted others and had anger management issues. He started out as a food service worker followed by a series of promotions that reflected his increased skills, hard work and dedication. He became a cook, a VIP cook and lead VIP Cook before accepting his current leader-ship position.

According to Herring, when he realized the AbilityOne Program was his lifeline to stable mental and physi-cal health, he began to trust others and was motivated to prove that he could succeed at work. He learned computer and writing skills, took classes to improve his interpersonal communi-cation skills and attended supervisor training and Goodwill’s Leadership Institute. His rise through the ranks at Goodwill was not always easy, but Herring always remained deter-mined and never gave up. According to VanParys, Herring applied several times for his current position and expressed his disappointment after his second failed attempt. VanParys encouraged him to hang in there, treat it as a learning experience and not let it get him down. Herring viewed the situation as just a temporary setback and continued to hone his skills. A few months later he was named manager.

“Many people use discouragement as a reason not to try again, Michael (Herring) does not,” VanParys said. “He came here with almost nothing and never asked for special favors. He is anxious to learn and absorbs ideas and information from those around him. Memories of his past and all the work he has done to succeed

are reflected in the compassion he expresses for his workers. He shares his real-life experiences to help him mentor and motivate employees. He understands the challenges they have to overcome, but discourages them from using roadblocks as an excuse not to try.”

Herring is committed to giving to others what he feels he has received in terms of support and encourage-ment from the AbilityOne Program. He volunteers and shares his experi-ences at Oxford House, a drug recovery program for homeless men. He promotes the AbilityOne Program and encourages individuals to take the steps necessary to move forward towards a happier and healthy life. He has a loving family whom he cherishes and is a role model within the community.

“It has been tremendous watch-ing Michael grow personally and professionally over the past 11 years I’ve been at Goodwill,” said Kent A. Walters, executive director of Goodwill Great Lakes. “He’s an effective leader who inspires others by his attitude towards life, caring manner and refusal to allow any obstacle stop him.”

Evelyne Villines Pacific West Region AwardDenise LeVasseurJP Industries, Inc.Tucson, Ariz.

Denise LeVasseur is a high-achiev-ing, dedicated and responsible crew leader who leads with integrity and a superlative work ethic.

Employee Awards

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Employee Awards

She is a model employee who has broadened and attained her profes-sional dreams by taking full advan-tage of the opportunities of the AbilityOne Program.

“Denise is an outstanding person,” said Dorothy Parker, human resources and personnel director at JP Industries of Tucson, Ariz. She never complains about anything, regardless of what she is asked to do. As crew leader, she insists each member of her team performs his or her duties in a highly efficient manner and holds them to a high standard of perfor-mance. If a worker is late or is unable to complete the assigned tasks, she is quick to take on their responsibili-ties and complete them. She is highly responsible, reliable and dependable.”

As crew leader, LeVasseur has supervisory responsibilities over eight employees. They clean two fitness centers and two racquet-ball courts at the Davis-Monthan Air Force gym in Tucson. Both locations are high visibility facili-ties. The daily cleaning tasks of these crews include sweeping, vacuuming carpets and mopping floors throughout the gymnasiums, locker rooms offices, weight and exercise rooms, and the nursery. Other tasks include dusting; door, glass and periodic window cleaning and tile floor scrubbing.

Denise is determined and self-suffi-cient,” Parker said. “She has repeat-edly said to me, ‘I don’t want any government welfare.’ She says that she wants to work and be a produc-

tive member of her community. She credits her job at JP Industries with enabling her to fulfill her life dreams of being a wife and raising a son. Her spirit and desire are what the AbilityOne Program is all about.”

An example of LeVasseur’s dedication to her job occurred when her car was broken down for two weeks. Despite significant impairment to the left side of her body, as a result of cerebral palsy, LeVasseur borrowed a bicycle and pedaled, with some difficulty, the four-mile distance to and from work until her car was functioning again. According to Parker, LeVasseur has stated many times, “I am not disabled. I just have a light disability.” It is reflective of how she stays focused on her abilities rather than physical challenges. On the job, LeVasseur wipes down the gym mirrors, cleans the bathrooms, mops floors, carries a vacuum sweeper on her back and uses the vacuum hose.

Away from her job, LeVasseur is very focused on the education of her young son and husband. Her son is an honors student and LeVas-seur attends his homeroom activi-ties and parent-teacher conferences. She provides refreshments for his sports activities and is involved with her local church. During the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base’s recogni-tion of Disability Awareness Month in 2012, LeVasseur is scheduled to be an active participant at the JPI job fair display.

“Denise is highly deserving of this award,” Parker said. “I love her excite-ment and enthusiasm.”

Evelyne Villines Northwest Region AwardNeil ColomacSkookumBremerton, Wash.

U.S. Army Veteran Neil Colomac’s rapid professional rise is a remark-able AbilityOne success story. In less than three years, he advanced from a subminimum wage job selling tools at a Sears store to the management-level position of quality control/safety/environment compliance officer at Fort Meade, Md.

Colomac is a 10-year veteran who was severely wounded during the war in Afghanistan. He had major surgery performed on his shoulder and deals with the memories of war. He experi-ences headaches, memory loss, back pain, the limited mobility of his limbs and risk of seizures. Many nights he is unable to sleep because of the pain, but he shows up for work everyday on time, with a smile and performs to the highest standard.

“Neil distinguishes himself by his willingness to do whatever is required to support the customer,” said Michor Gentemann, General Manager of Skookum. “His proac-tive attitude and ability to find workable solutions to problems made him the superior candi-date for promotion. He has a deep understanding about how to support our military customers that surpasses the average person’s willingness to learn and execute.”

Nearly every morning on the job, Colomac declares, “what five positive things can you think of or do today?” He brings a positive and uncomplain-ing attitude to work everyday. He is a mentor, generous with his technical

Summer 2012 | 17

expertise, hard working and willing to help other injured warriors work through their mental and physical difficulties during their transition to a productive civilian life following their military service. He is a huge advocate of the AbilityOne Program and everything it stands for.

“I believe wholeheartedly that veter-ans are a great fit (for the AbilityOne Program) because they have the knowledge base and skills the federal customer is looking for and those skills are also transferrable to private industry,” Colomac said. “No one knows the military better than the people who have served within it. By getting them back into support-ing that service, you are going to get employees who believe wholeheart-edly in the mission.”

One example of Colomac’s immense capabilities took place when, at the last minute, he stood in for a supply manager at a high level meeting with the government customer. When he was called upon, he had no difficulty providing supply dates for multiple, high visibility activities. “We learned that day we had a confident and gifted communicator that blew the socks off our management and the customer,” Gentemann said.

Colomac and his wife spend consid-erable time with other veteran’s dependents and their loved-ones. Colomac helps out by perform-ing minor house repairs, yard work and running errands. He also is a devoted father of two children and involved in many youth activities at his local YMCA.

According to Gentemann, “Neal truly exceeds what is expected of any employee. His work ethic, willing-ness to help fellow employees and the customer, consistent pleasant personality and ability to see and support organizational goals marked him for advancement from the very start. He is a shining example of an individual that has overcome his

disabilities to become a contributing member of the team.”

Evelyne Villines East Region AwardKelly FerrellEggleston ServicesNorfolk, Va.

Kelly Ferrell is renowned for being a fast learner, solution oriented and independent. A lot has changed since Ferrell started working in the mailroom of the Norfolk, Va. office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) in 1993, but she has always adapted and in some cases even led the change effort. She is pro-active, detail oriented and a good communicator. She oversaw the computerization of mailroom operations and has a reputa-tion for understanding the govern-ment’s mail and shipping policies better than anyone else.

When she first started working in the mailroom, Ferrell found backlogs of parcels that needed to be shipped. She meticulously sorted the parcels by importance and time sensitivity, and subsequently implemented a new process to prevent future backlogs. However, Ferrell’s success at work did not come easily. Due to cerebral palsy, she had to overcome significant physical challenges such as figuring out how to pick up a mail tray without falling. To describe Ferrell as resil-ient would be an understatement; for example, she proudly describes one of her achievements as learning to fall without sustaining injury!

Today Ferrell is the mailroom super-visor. She manages two employees, tracks work time, produces safety reports, conducts assessments and performs training. She also is respon-sible for processing and distributing incoming mail, mailroom computer operations and the management of outgoing parcels for shipping. She

can be counted on to help even if the request falls outside of her respon-sibilities. She is very approachable and provides outstanding customer service. The Army Corps of Engineers appreciates her so much that it even gave her a signed parking space and installed special railing next to the door she uses to enter the building.

“The close, almost family-like relationship Kelly has with ACOE is not like any other situation I have seen,” remarked Chris Hoagland, Vice President of Government Contracts at Eggleston Services. “For example, she updates her employ-ees on local issues, like the recent construction of a light rail line that caused multiple traffic detours and delays during daily commutes. She is so valued by ACOE that when they learned she had won this award, they organized a special lunchtime recog-nition event attended by the ACOE Commanding Officer. She serves as the perfect example of a successful partnership between the AbilityOne Program and a federal customer.”

At ACOE, Ferrell is considered a prized expert about how to ship items. She retains complete knowl-edge of postal regulations and proce-dures, and keeps up with all new modifications. She is proficient with the software used by the government for mailroom operations as well as all Internet-based shipping services such as FedEx, Priority Mail and UPS. Following the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, Ferrell completed training on security techniques for opening mail and spotting suspicious letters or packages.

Outside of the mailroom, Ferrell has very eclectic taste in music and enjoys collecting recordings, including limited editions. One of her greatest pleasures is driving her Ford Mustang with its adapted controls. She believes her ability to drive is one of her most important accomplishments because it has given her an invaluable sense of independence and freedom. H

Employee Awards

18 | NISH WORKPLACE

Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop SupportPhiladelphia, Penn.

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop support in Philadel-phia is an extraordinary promoter of the AbilityOne Program and its product manufacturing capabilities for the U.S. Armed Forces. Under the leadership of DLA Director Navy Vice Adm. Alan Thompson, the agency has looked to AbilityOne to provide uniforms and other products to the Department of Defense.

“We are pleased to accept this honor,” Air Force Col. Jeanne Hardrath, DLA troop support clothing and textiles director, said. “NISH plays a critical role in our mission to supply Ameri-ca’s warfi ghters.”

At a forum in front of AbilityOne nonprofi t agencies (NPAs) in Denver, Colo. in June 2011, Vice Adm. Th ompson strongly endorsed the AbilityOne Program and expressed

his gratitude for the employment opportunities it provides to people with signifi cant disabilities. “I think we would all like to have employment that is bigger than ourselves, where we feel there is a greater good or greater sense of mission or purpose than just going to work and earning a paycheck,” Vice Adm. Th ompson said. “I suspect all of you feel that the compensation for what you’re doing is well beyond a paycheck. I’ve had the opportunity to visit a number of [AbilityOne organizations], and it’s just a moving experience each time. So, I thank you for the way you’re spending your professional lives. I think it’s very commendable and it does so much good for so many.”

The nonprofit agency, Vocational Guidance Services (VGS) of Cleve-land, Ohio, produces five different product lines for the Department of Defense: the U.S. Army’s dress green trousers for ladies; two current U.S. Army dress blue trousers for ladies (one for the enlisted and another

for the officers); the women’s U.S. Marine Corp dress trousers and the women’s U.S. Navy dress trousers. The five contracts are valued at $3.5 million annually and employ 52 people with disabilities.

According to the General Manager of VGS’ power sewing division, Tavi Gargano, the nonprofit agency started manufacturing uniforms for the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corp in the 1990s, the U.S. Navy in 2001 and added contracts over the years —and AbilityOne Program jobs—as procurements continued to grow. “They (DLA Troop Support) have always recognized VGS as a go-to vendor,” Gargano said. “As they have seen opportunity to help us grow and provide people with disabilities an opportunity to work, they have shared with us procurements of products that need to be made. They have allowed us, through NISH, to show what our workforce can do.”

VGS views DLA Troop Support both as a customer and partner. There is no question that VGS will step forward and do whatever it takes to meet a tight deadline for a product line. Conversely, DLA Troop Support Contracting Officer, Tony D’Avella and his staff are very supportive of VGS.

“They (DLA Troop Support) are great partners,” Gargano said. “The individuals we deal with for our contracts are always professional and helpful with any contractual questions we may have or techni-cal support we may require. Staff members at all levels of DLA Troop Support are very good to VGS.” H

Government Award for ProductsTh is award recognizes a military oorganization or civilian federal agency that has provided outstanding support to the AbilityOne® Program for Products.

Customer Awards

Keith Ford (center) accepts the award for DLA Troop Support, nominated by VGS of Cleveland, Ohio.

Summer 2012 | 19

Government Award for Services (Military)Th is award recognizes a military organization that has provided outstanding support to the AbilityOne® Program for Services.

U.S. Army Medical Command (USAMEDCOM)Fort Sam Houston, Texas

Under the leadership of Col. Scott A. Svabek, commander of the U.S. Army Medical Command (USAMEDCOM) Health Care Acquisition Activity (HCAA) and Principal Assistant Responsible for Contracting (PARC) at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, AbilityOne Program jobs for people with disabilities have increased a spectacular 300 percent in just three years (encompassing contracts managed by Professional Contract Services, Inc. (PCSI) and Job Options, Inc.). Col. Svabek champions the quality of work performed by AbilityOne employees and clearly is impassioned by the difference employment makes in the lives of veterans and others with significant disabilities.

“Excellent military leaders enable nonprofit agencies (NPAs) like ours to step closer to our collective goal of providing people with disabilities as many employment opportunities as possible,” said Carroll Schubert,

President and CEO of PCSI in Austin, Texas. PCSI operates the hospital housekeeping departments of three USAMEDCOM hospitals and their outlying medical and dental clinics: Evans Army Commu-nity Hospital at Fort Carson, Colo.; Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, Va. and Ireland Army Commu-nity Hospital at Fort Knox, Ky. Combined, those hospital environ-mental services contracts employ 185 people with disabilities includ-ing 52 service-disabled veterans, many of whom are in supervisory or management positions.

According to Schubert, the hugely successful collaboration between the AbilityOne Program, PCSI and USAMEDCOM was apparent from the very start. The first day PCSI took over the Evans Army Commu-nity Hospital housekeeping contract in Colorado Springs, a hailstorm broke nearly all the skylights in the atrium. “USAMEDCOM worked very closely with PCSI so that the hospital could continue caring for and admitting patients while our employees cleaned up the broken

glass and assisted in placing tarps to cover the open areas,” Schubert said. “Neither party yet knew each other, but we were able to work together closely to ensure the continued delivery of services.”

While serving as the USAMEDCOM liaison officer to the Warrior Care and Transition Office, Col. Svabek made the commitment to help wounded warriors with their rehabil-itation by providing them a place to work and possibly learn a new profession as part of their recovery process. The AbilityOne Program has been an ideal match for imple-menting that strategy.

USAMEDCOM looks to the AbilityOne Program to provide hospital environmental services in its facilities, and Col. Svabek actively promotes the program and the contribution it has made toward creating new jobs for wounded warriors. “Col. Svabek has been the driving force behind the AbilityOne Program at MEDCOM,” Schubert said. It’s a win-win for all parties. Wounded warriors benefit from finding employment after leaving the service and NPAs benefit from the knowledge, past experience, dedication and discipline veterans bring to their new jobs with the AbilityOne Program. Since most wounded warriors have spent time at some point in military hospitals as patients, they sincerely under-stand the importance of cleaning those facilities to the highest possi-ble standard.

Today, hundreds of people with signifi cant disabilities, including many service-disabled veterans, are currently employed at USAMED-COM facilities nationwide. H

Customer Awards

Pictured from left to right: Bob Chamberlin, NISH President & CEO; Lt. Col. Scott Svabek, USAMEDCOM and Bill Coleman, Jr., NISH Board chair.

20 | NISH WORKPLACE

Customer Awards

U.S. Army Garrison-Redstone ArsenalRedstone Arsenal, Ala.

The federal community of Redstone Arsenal, Ala. has vigor-ously supported the AbilityOne Program since its inception in the 1970s. Today, some 425 AbilityOne Program employees work there along with 10 custodial services “trainees”(individuals with signifi-cant disabilities who receive on-site instruction). AbilityOne contracts include janitorial services for more than 500 buildings and the maintenance of some 6,000 acres of grounds—the largest U.S. Army grounds maintenance contract in the world.

“I cannot imagine a more professional group to work with than the garri-son staff ,” said Phoenix CEO Bryan Dodson. “Together, we function as professional partners to meet the needs of our mutual customers. Th ey (Redstone Arsenal) bring a wealth of contracting and management exper-tise to the partnership. Th ey under-stand how to structure contracts to

help mitigate risk exposure to keep costs down. Conversely, they make wise investments in equipment and processes that will lower expenses in the long run.”

According to Dodson, one of the best examples of the Phoenix and the Redstone Arsenal partnership occurred during a period of budget cuts. Th e U.S. Army listened to Phoenix’s ideas on how to minimize the impact of those reductions on direct services. Aft er the cuts were agreed to, the Redstone Arsenal contracting offi cer called more than 300 government building managers to explain the reductions to ensure Phoenix would not be misperceived as decreasing its services for no reason. “To us, that proved they consider Phoenix and our employees to be full members of their team,” Dodson said. “Th e Redstone Arsenal staff is a great group of professionals who hold us and themselves account-able for keeping 29,000 individuals at Redstone happy.”

Over the years, the expansion of the base-wide custodial services contract

has been phenomenal, growing from 101 AbilityOne employees in 2001 to 260 today. Along the way, the Garri-son Public Work’s staff has included Phoenix in its planning to help ensure the Nonprofi t Agency (NPA) could provide adequately trained custodians, many requiring security clearances, when newly constructed buildings opened. In 2009, Redstone Arsenal worked with NISH to transi-tion their grounds maintenance contract to AbilityOne, thereby adding an additional 135 jobs for people with signifi cant disabilities.

Under the leadership of Col. John Hamilton, Garrison Commander and Redstone-Arsenal Director of Public Works, Joe Davis, Redstone Arsenal works tirelessly to resolve any issues that may arise. Th ey meet regularly with Phoenix management and are advocates for AbilityOne employ-ees. Th ey provide regular training to their public works employees on AbilityOne and disability issues they clearly appreciate how the AbilityOne Program benefi ts both Redstone Arsenal and the local community.

“It is impossible to imagine any government agency that is more supportive of AbilityOne and people with disabilities than the U.S. Army Garrison-Redstone Arsenal,” Dodson said. “Th eir actions demonstrate daily that Phoenix and Phoenix employees are valued members of team Redstone and important contributors to the critical missions assigned to a variety of Army and government agencies on Redstone Arsenal. Th ey include us in important decisions and most impor-tantly, the government and contrac-tor employees across Redstone treat Phoenix employees with the same respect and courtesy as they treat each other. H

Government Award for Services (Military)Th is award recognizes a military organization that has provided outstanding support to the AbilityOne® Program for Services.

Dr. Carol Lowman, executive director of the Army Contracting Command (member of the Commission) accepts the award from (left) Bob Chamberlin, NISH President & CEO and (right) Bill Coleman, Jr., NISH Board chair.

Summer 2012 | 21

Customer Awards

Government Award for Services (Civilian)Th is award recognizes a civilian federal agency that has provided outstanding support to the AbilityOne® Program for Services.

General Services Administration (GSA) White House Center Eisenhower Executive Offi ce BuildingWashington, D.C.

Th e General Services Administra-tion’s (GSA) enthusiastic and longtime support for the AbilityOne Program is magnifi cently showcased at the GSA White House Center Eisenhower Executive Offi ce Building (EEOB) in Washington, D.C. Th e cleanliness of this very high profi le historic site is paramount and GSA has entrusted that responsibility to the nonprofi t agency (NPA) Didlake, Inc. of Manas-sas, Va.

“Th is is a customer with high demands for their prestigious building and they gave Didlake and the AbilityOne Program an opportunity to shine by selecting us for their custodial services,” said Betty Williams, Didlake operations manager. “Aft er recog-nizing Didlake could do a great job, they off ered additional opportuni-ties and greatly expanded the scope of work. Don Costello, the original

COR, was instrumental in develop-ing the relationship we now have. He demonstrated the level of profession-alism that he expected at EEOB and relayed that to us as we took over the contract.”

Since Didlake took over the custo-dial services in 2008, the GSA White House Center Contracting Offi cer Representative, William “Buck” Dietz and his team, have expanded the contract by 30 percent to encompass 800,000 sq. ft . of building space. Jobs for people with disabilities have simul-taneously more than doubled, from 24 to 52 positions. Th e larger scope of work also has led to the addition of an offi ce clerk.

“Th e GSA White House Center requires above standard services 24 hours a day and they have worked with us every step of the way,” Williams said. “Buck (Dietz) has a very demanding job and he knows that he can depend on Didlake to support him. He is in constant contact with us to address any need that arises. We are thrilled to recognize the White

House Center with this award for providing outstanding jobs for people with disabilities, for all their support and for allowing Didlake to prove it is the right fi t for this contract.”

EEOB is on the National Register of Historic Places. It houses U.S. Cabinet level offi cials and is located adjacent to the White House. Dignitaries, includ-ing the President and Vice President, attend meetings and professional functions at the site.

According to Williams, the GSA White House Center and Didlake have a close partnership that functions like a tight-knit team. Th ey meet weekly to discuss opportunities for improvement and collaborate on initiatives, for example, the establishment of a recycling program in 2010 and an annual Earth Day Event. Today, the Earth Day event enables Didlake to display its green cleaning processes and provides an excellent platform for promoting the AbilityOne Program’s environmentally friendly janitorial services.

“We are thankful that Didlake and the AbilityOne Program have the oppor-tunity to be a service provider to the GSA White House Center,” Williams said. “We are very honored to be here. It is a beautiful building. We are busy all day long and they (the Center) appreciate our great staff and employ-ees. Th is contract epitomizes Didlake’s vision of communities enriched by the inclusion of people with disabilities in valued social roles. H

Pictured from left to right: NISH President & CEO Bob Chamberlin; Karone Blondin, GSA; Mike Payne, Betty Williams and Karin Farrow, Didlake; and Bill Coleman, Jr., NISH Board chair.

22 | NISH WORKPLACE


Performance Excellence in Hiring Veterans With DisabilitiesTh is award recognizes an NPA for outstanding outreach and support in recruiting, hiring and training veterans with disabilities.

CW Resources, Inc. New Britain, Conn.

CW Resources, Inc. pulls out all the stops when it comes to hiring veterans with disabilities. Today, it employs more than 80 former members of the Armed Forces with disabilities and has established a veteran recruiting pipeline for its AbilityOne Program contracts.

CW Resources conducts job fairs and reaches out to local nonprofi t agencies (NPAs) and veterans groups to identify wounded warriors seeking employment. To help attract veter-ans with disabilities, CW Resources provides specialized training programs and highlights the strong potential for career growth within its job descriptions.

“We believe that hiring veterans with or without disabilities to work on military facilities is a win-win situation and enables us to provide a workforce fully indoctrinated in the military culture and mission,”

said Ronald Buccilli, president and CEO of CW Resources. “They are able to provide a higher level of service more quickly than a tradi-tional work force. This discrimi-nator, coupled with our Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS)-Green Building (GB) certi-fication and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) training, makes CW Resources a more competitive company on federal acquisitions.”

According to Regan Zick, rehabilita-tion services coordinator at CW Resources, the presence of veterans within the CW Resources workforce helps to boost the morale of all employees.

To develop winning strategies for recruiting wounded warriors, CW Resources collaborates with federal, state and local veteran’s affairs offices and other groups. For example, a former CW Resources employee who now works at the Washington, D.C. Veterans Medical

Center, Compensated Work Therapy program sent the resumes of poten-tial job candidates to CW Resources and coordinated numerous job fairs on the NPA’s behalf.

CW Resources purposefully seeks contract opportunities that will take advantage of the excellent skills and professional aspirations of many veterans with disabilities. It off ers management, supervisory and leader-ship positions in a variety of profes-sions. “We recognize our veteran community is highly trained in areas such as logistics, computer technolo-gies, operating machinery and transportation support,” said Buccilli. “However, some individuals may require retraining. We off er many diff erent types of training, job match-ing and apprenticeship opportuni-ties for these individuals so they can explore new areas of work and once again become an expert.” Examples of CW Resources training programs include management training for custodial services, grounds mainte-nance, galley/facility/commissary management, total facility manage-ment, logistics, and food packaging.

There are numerous stories of veterans with disabilities whose lives have been transformed by their employment at CW Resources. One example is a veteran who was homeless and estranged from his family for a time before accept-ing a job at the NPA. Today, that veteran is re-establishing meaning-ful relationships with his son and daughter. “He recently told us that working for CW Resources has given him the confidence he lacked to begin making some of his dreams a reality,” Zick said. H

Pictured from left to right: NISH President and CEO Bob Chamberlin; Regan Zick, specialist, Rehabilitation; Rico Lopez McDonald, veteran/custodian; Ronald Buccilli, CEO; Sandra Lavoy, VP, Rehabilitation and NISH Board Chair Bill Coleman, Jr.

Summer 2012 | 23


Performance Excellence in Grassroots Advocacy Th is award recognizes a nonprofi t agency’s (NPA’s) eff ective, creative approach for engaging and educating public policymakers on a local, state or federal level about the AbilityOne® Program.

Black Hills Workshop/BH Services, Inc.Rapid City, S.D.

Grassroots advocacy at Black Hills Workshops/BH Services, Inc. is founded upon direct contact and the building of personal relationships. Th e Rapid City, S.D.-based nonprofi t agency (NPA) relies upon the individuals it serves and employs to take leading roles in persuading government legislators to support laws that provide services to, and help create jobs for, people with signifi cant disabilities at the local, state and federal levels.

“It’s rewarding to be recognized for the years we’ve spent educating decision makers about how they can better support people with disabili-ties,” said Brad Saathoff , CEO, Black Hills Workshop/BH Services, Inc. “Our grassroots eff orts have enabled us to achieve meaningful results. On the federal level, we helped stop food service transformation, resulting in several people being able to keep their jobs. On the state level, our eff orts helped to minimize budget cuts in an

extremely challenging fi scal environ-ment. We have been able to forge partnerships with legislators. Th ey now think about people with disabili-ties while they make decisions on funding allocations.”

Black Hills Workshops/BH Services, Inc. employs a variety of grassroots advocacy eff orts to connect with, educate and infl uence the opinion of government representatives about issues that impact people with signifi -cant disabilities. Since the NPA has AbilityOne Program contracts at Ellsworth and Off utt Air Forces Bases, employees travel to Washington, D.C. at least three times a year to meet with South Dakota and Nebraska state delegations to the federal govern-ment. “We have made it a priority to show our political leaders fi rst hand the quality of work being done by AbilityOne employees,” Saathoff said.

Black Hills Workshop/BH Services, Inc. hosts annual town hall meetings for state senators and representa-tives to educate them about the NPA’s mission and the contributions to

the workplace made by AbilityOne employees and others with disabili-ties. U.S. Sens. Johnson and Th une of South Dakota have toured the Black Hills Workshop/BH Services, Inc. AbilityOne contracts at Ellsworth Air Force Base and both are AbilityOne champions. In Nebraska, Black Hills Workshops/BH Services, Inc. is working with Goodwill Industries to develop relationships with that state’s delegation. U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns of Neb. has already visited the NPA’s AbilityOne contract operations at Off utt AFB and U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson of Neb., U.S. Rep. Lee Terry (Neb.-2) and U.S. Rep. Kristi Noem (S.D.) have all committed to tours in the near future. All three also have committed to becoming AbilityOne champions.

Currently, Black Hills Workshop/BH Services, Inc. leads the S.D. Associa-tion of Community Based Services working on Medicaid policy issues. In February 2011, 19 people with disabilities and seven staff members from the NPA traveled to the S.D. state capitol of Pierre to speak to lawmak-ers about the Governor’s proposed 10 percent cuts to Medicaid. Th ey met with individual senators and representatives and attended a meeting of the state appropriations committee. When the committee fl oor was opened to testi-mony, eight people with disabilities from Black Hills Workshop/BH Services, Inc. spoke up. Th ey made articulate and persuasive speeches about how the proposed funding cuts would aff ect their lives. “Th e Medicaid battle is not over, but back in February at least, the grass roots eff ort helped to lesson the cut we faced from 10 to 4.5 percent,” Saathoff said. “While this still presents a serious challenge to our agency, it is better than it could have been.” H

Pictured from left to right: Bob Chamberlin, NISH President & CEO; Brad Saathoff, CEO; Marty Krause, VP of Operations, BH Services, Inc. and Bill Coleman, NISH Board chair.

24 | NISH WORKPLACE


Performance Excellence in Using the AbilityOne Program to Further Its Mission Th is award recognizes and promotes the contributions of the nonprofi t agency (NPA) by focusing on how the AbilityOne® Program specifi cally supports the mission of the NPA and the overall eff ort to support people with signifi cant disabilities.

LifeROOTS Inc.Albuquerque, N.M.

LifeROOTS Inc. has achieved extraordinary success in using the AbilityOne Program to further its mission by partnering with some of the most established organi-zations in the Albuquerque, N.M. region. The result has been many new and fulfilling local jobs for people with disabilities.

Th e nonprofi t agency (NPA) serves more than 1,500 people with disabili-ties each year by providing them with the resources and support they need to recognize and achieve their fullest potential. “Th rough our AbilityOne contracts, we have been able to further our mission by giving adults with disabilities the opportunity to become contributing members of the local workforce, thereby enhancing their lives, and their self-esteem and allowing them to achieve their highest level of self-suffi ciency,” said Kathleen Holmes Cates, President and CEO of

LifeROOTS, Inc. “In particular, the employment opportunities provided by our switchboard operations and custodial services contracts at Kirtland Air Force Base (AFB) have touched, and forever changed, many lives.”

LifeROOTS has managed AbilityOne contracts at Kirtland AFB, N.M. since 1991. Today, those contracts support custodial services and switchboard operations jobs for 50 people with signifi cant disabilities. Additionally, LifeROOTS employs 13 people with disabilities on an AbilityOne custodial and grounds keeping services contract at the Pete V. Domenici Federal Court-house in Albuquerque.

Cates shared the story of one AbilityOne employee, Gloria Silva, as an example of how the program trans-forms lives. “We have watched with pride as Gloria Silva has risen through the ranks within Kirtland’s demanding switchboard operations department,” Cates said. “We have seen her transi-tion from joblessness to an indepen-

dent, confi dent woman who now supervises, trains and professionally nurtures a staff of 10 other people with disabilities at a highly demanding call center at this busy base.”

Another way in which LifeROOTS has used the AbilityOne Program to further its mission is by working closely with college engineer-ing students on AbilityOne Design Challenge projects. Th e NPA partnered with the University of New Mexico and New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology on two diff er-ent initiatives that involved the design of innovative tools to support the productivity and job safety of employ-ees with signifi cant disabilities.

LifeROOTS has embraced the AbilityOne Quality Work Environ-ment (QWE) by submitting and launching the implementation of a new strategic plan. “Our QWE committee has already made vast improvements to our work environ-ment with this process and they are only half way through the list.” said Cates. “It is so rewarding to see how engaged the employees have become in the process.”

LifeROOTS is distinguished for keenly pursuing every potential employ-ment opportunity for people with disabilities, no matter how small. “If it is a viable business and trains or employs an individual successfully, we will pursue it,” Cates said. “Th ese opportunities have allowed people with signifi cant disabilities learn basic customer service and social skills and they help prepare an individual for more complex work on an AbilityOne Program contract.” H

Pictured left to right: Bob Chamberlin, NISH President and CEO; Kathleen Cates, LifeROOTS Inc. CEO; David Griffi s, director of Contracts and NISH Board Chair Bill Coleman, Jr.

Summer 2012 | 25


Performance Excellence in Government ContractsTh is award recognizes excellence in AbilityOne® contract performance and serves as an example to other nonprofi t agencies (NPAs).

Peckham, Inc.Lansing, Mich.

Peckham, Inc. is highly distinguished for its world-class level business performance across several, very diff erent, service and product lines. Its apparel manufacturing, call centers, warehousing and custodial businesses are equally famed for meeting top international standards of quality. Day in and day out, Peckham provides federal govern-ment customers with quality, on-time delivery, fl exibility, a clear under-standing of their needs and profes-sional customer service.

At least twice a month, customers from various braches of the federal government tour Peckham’s opera-tions. Annually, managers from some 30 nonprofi t agencies (NPAs) also visit to learn about Peckham’s best practices. In 2011, nearly 100 Michi-gan manufactures toured Peckham for a fi rsthand look at its best

practices in lean manufacturing.

“We were delighted and gratifi ed when we learned we won this award,” said Jo Sinha, Peckham Corporate Vice President. “We are really proud of our ability to deliver quality products and services to our custom-ers. Th e NISH awards program is an important way to recognize the hard work and eff orts of our staff .”

Peckham has been able to transfer what works in one line of business to others. “Being able to deliver high quality goods and services is really all about having a well-trained and well supported workforce,” Sinha added. “We have an amazingly commit-ted staff that is passionate about the mission and genuinely believes people with disabilities can achieve excel-lence given the right combination of supports, training and accommoda-tions. We are so confi dent in the abili-ties of people with disabilities that as a result, we have become confi dent in

our overall capacity as an agency.”

Customers know they can count on Peckham each and every day. Whether answering a call, sewing a garment, cleaning a fl oor or shipping an order, Peckham strives for excellence every time. It employs many hard metrics to measure quality and performance; its business plan contains 345 measures and each quarter the results are shared throughout the organization.

Peckham is International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-9001:2008 certifi ed across all lines of business. Two of its staff are certifi ed Six Sigma Black Belts and 15 staff are certifi ed Green Belts. It also strives to reduce its energy footprint through its Leader-ship in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certifi ed buildings and recycling program for scrap material. It is estimated that Peckham’s LEED certifi ed warehouse will result in $75,000 in annual energy savings.

Peckham incorporates lean practices and when it can improve a process, reduce waste or automate, it shares the savings with its customers; for example, it achieved cost savings that enabled it to reduce the price of its National Passport Information Center contract annually. Finally, Peckham is proactive in implementing process improvements and providing value engineering for all of its customers.

In the midst of so much enterprise, the mission remains Peckham’s central focus. “One of the best things about coming to work every morning is hearing employees say, ‘I love my job,’” Sinha said. “It’s another reason why we are success-ful. Our folks love what they do.” H

Mitch Tomlinson, President/CEO, Peckham, Inc.; Greta Wu, SVP of Human Services, Karen Jury, SVP and Director of Marketing accept the award presented by (far left) NISH President and CEO Bob Chamberlin and (far right) NISH Board Chair Bill Coleman, Jr.

Summer 2012 | 27


Performance Excellence in Quality Work EnvironmentTh is award recognizes a nonprofi t agency (NPA) for outstanding support in providing employees with disabilities enhanced employment opportunities, improved wages and upward mobility.

Peckham, Inc.Lansing, Mich.

Peckham Inc. has made extraordinary gains in employee and client satisfaction during the past year. Th e catalyst for this improvement was the completion of a Quality Work Environment (QWE) assessment and the subsequent imple-mentation of dozens of changes impact-ing nearly every aspect of the nonprofi t agency’s (NPA’s) operations. New hire orientation, front-line supervisor train-ing, communication about resources available to clients, an increased focus on upward mobility and other solutions have resulted in Peckham’s highest satis-faction scores in decades.

Peckham believes strongly in the benefi ts of adhering to quality standards like Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), Inter-national Organization for Standard-ization (ISO) and QWE. According to Greta Wu, senior vice president of human services at Peckham, quality standards help strengthen the organiza-

tion and keep it focused on creating success across the board. “As a result of the QWE self-assessment and the devel-opment of our strategic action plan, we have instituted changes that show signifi cant and lasting positive impact on our organization and most impor-tantly, the people we serve,” Wu said. “We have always been CARF accredited, but QWE fi lled in some missing areas and helped us focus more strongly on the economic achievements of our clients. It helped us strengthen our upward mobility pathways and more clearly communicate those opportuni-ties to our employees with disabilities.”

Peckham’s QWE goals are incor-porated into its business plan and progress is measured quarterly. Th e NPA participates in the Employee Research System (ERS) database by submitting the demographics and outcomes of its clients. Th e impact of all the changes Peckham has recently instituted is best refl ected in its client satisfaction scores. Th ey have steadily inched higher during the past year and

most recently achieved 4.44 out of fi ve.

Peckham has undertaken a sustained eff ort to identify and strengthen weaker areas. It has increased its focus on new employee mainstreaming, restructured its orientation process and increased upfront training to provide better opportunities for success. One example is the new wage structure it implemented for apparel manufacturing employees that takes into account learning, cross training, attendance and productivity. Individ-ual work tasks have been designated as easy, medium or hard and employees earn wage increases based on how many new tasks (aka “job steps”) they learn. “All of a sudden we have folks clamoring to learn new job steps and it’s wonderful,” Wu said.

Th e NPA now off ers a variety of industry-specifi c paid training opportunities such as A+ certifi ca-tion training online, Windows 7, and warehousing and forklift training certifi cations. Peckham has invested in front line staff training by educating supervisors on how to recognize and reward positive work behaviors and it has launched a new initiative aimed at better supporting communications between front line supervisors and their employees.

Upward mobility was always a feature of Peckham’s business plan, but the organi-zation now has established specifi c goals for upward mobility within all of its business lines. Th e objectives are tied to retention rates, reinforcing the idea that upwardly mobile positions should be obtainable and retainable. In 2011, Peckham exceeded its upward mobility goals by 150 percent and it has set the bar even higher for 2012. H

Mitch Tomlinson, President/CEO, Peckham, Inc.; Greta Wu, SVP of Human Services, Karen Jury, SVP and Director of Marketing accept the award presented by (far left) NISH President and CEO Bob Chamberlin and (far right) NISH Board Chair Bill Coleman, Jr.

Summer 2012 | 29

NCWC Award

Milton Cohen Leadership AwardTh e Milt Cohen Award recognizes an individual within the AbilityOne® community of nonprofi t agencies (NPAs) who has demonstrated national leadership, in or on behalf of the AbilityOne Program, with impact across the entire AbilityOne community, and enhanced employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Th e award is named for Milton Cohen, a leading national spokesperson and advocate for people with disabilities.

David HenningerBayaud EnterprisesDenver, Colo.

For more than 40 years, David Henninger has been an excep-tional leader within the AbilityOne Program and the local Denver business community. In 1969, he helped to found Bayaud Enterprises. As its executive director for the past several decades he has overseen rehabilitative services, vocational training and job placement activi-ties for more than 7,000 people with significant disabilities. He is an associate faculty member of Regis University’s Masters of Nonprofit Management program in Denver where he has educated graduate students in nonprofit governance and leadership for the past decade.

“I was shocked and delighted when I learned I had received this Award,” Henninger said. “I consider the past honorees of the Milt Cohen Award to be among the finest leaders in the rehabilitation field. It is humbling to now be in their company.”

According to Carole Pisko, director of contracts at Bayaud Enterprises, Henninger has distinguished himself by successfully steering the nonprofi t agency through tough economic challenges over the years, oft en by introducing innovative solutions for meeting the rehabilitative and employ-ment needs of the people Bayaud serves. “Th e economic challenges of the last few years have been very diffi cult for our organization and for nonprofi ts in general,” Pisko said. “David showed visionary leader-ship during these times by focusing on creative collaborations with other service providers and building business partnerships resulting in expanded, wrap around services for individuals with disabilities at a time when many agencies were shutting their doors.”

Bayaud’s roots are closely tied to mental health disabilities, includ-ing post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), anxiety and depression. Henninger passionately advocated for persons with mental illness to be included in the expanded defi ni-tion of disability for the AbilityOne

Program. “For this we are very proud and grateful,” Pisko said.

Henninger has been a devoted advocate of public policies at the state and federal levels that support the employment of people with signifi cant disabilities. For more than a decade, he has taken Bayaud staff members and clients to Washington, D.C. to participate in NISH’s annual AbilityOne grassroots program. “It requires tremendous eff ort, fi nesse and passion to arrange to visit your local members of Congress and urge them to support employment for individuals with disabilities through the AbilityOne Program,” Pisko said. “David (Henninger) understands the critical importance of this initiative. Th e inspiration he gains from the individuals with disabilities that partici-pate propels him to act as a change agent back in Colorado.”

Henninger helped to recruit several members of Congress to become AbilityOne champions. His under-standing of national and commu-nity programs led to the addition of AmeriCorps volunteers at Bayaud, providing fi nancial services to those most in need. Henninger embraced the Quality Work Environment standards at Bayaud and has served on many community boards.

In 2010, David received the NCWC Management Excellence Award and is a fi nalist for Colorado Business Magazine’s 2012 CEO of the Year Award. With Henninger at the helm, Bayaud has received the national Mutual of American Community Partnership Award and was recog-nized by Colorado Business Magazine as one of the state’s top 250 private companies in 2011. H

NCWC President Jerry Bettenhausen (left) presents the Milton Cohen Award to David Henninger (right), Bayaud Enterprises.

30 | NISH WORKPLACE


Nelsen Lauver

At age 29, with the help of a very special educator, Nelson Lauver was diagnosed with dyslexia and made it his goal to fi nally learn to read and write. In the 18 months that followed, intense struggle, burning desire and a never-give-up attitude enabled him to achieve his goal, and change his life. Nelson learned to read and write, and that was just the start.

With the gift of literacy, a new world suddenly opened up to him.

“I was now ready to read my fi rst book. I selected Booker T. Washing-ton’s autobiography, ‘Up from Slavery.’ Although I’ve read a lot since then, this book remains the most powerful for me. Booker T. Washington’s story is one of perseverance at its fi nest, and the inspiration borne of his struggle and ultimate success remains with me,” says Lauver.

Today, Lauver is an acclaimed broadcaster, speaker, humorist, award-winning narrator, author and advocate for literacy and disabilities awareness. Nelson has become a master communicator with a power-

ful message that he shares with radio and Internet listeners and live audiences around the world.

As a professional speaker and humorist for the last fifteen years, Lauver has been sharing his own story to help others reach their potential. His message, delivery, and example have made him an in-demand speaker for educators, associations, government agencies, civic groups, corporate audiences, and disability groups. Lauver passionately believes in the value of every human being. With his gift for weaving true stories into valuable life lessons he helps people realize their vast potential and ability to face adversity head on.

In 1992, while Nelson was busy on a parking lot job, a stranger stopped and asked for directions. Lauver tried to help the man, who handed him a tablet and asked him to write them down. When the man realized he’d made an impossible request, he asked Nelson if he’d ever been tested for dyslexia.

Brief as it was, that encounter changed Lauver’s life. He knew

two things: He didn’t want to paint parking lot lines for the rest of his life; and, if he was going to have a better future, it was time to swallow his pride and seek help.

At the man’s suggestion, he turned to the Pennsylvania Offi ce of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) to help fi nd strategies for dealing with his dyslexia and learning to read and write.

Exhaustive professional evalua-tions determined that, as a means of compensating for his reading and writing disability, Lauver uncon-sciously honed his listening and speaking skills to extraordinary levels. It was an asset that came into play when—as part of the vocational rehabilitation process—he needed to choose a stable career path.

Lauver’s thoughts returned to his boyhood dream of becoming a lawyer or a broadcaster. His desire to become a broadcaster was more powerful—and he had the voice for it, too.

Confi dent in his new literacy skills, he stepped behind the microphone and began his career as a broadcaster, professional narrator and voice-over artist. Th ere was great demand for his natural, comfortable voice and cadence. Nelson discovered that to stand out in the world of broad-casting, he simply needed to be his imperfect self.

As a speaker and humorist for nearly 15 years now, Lauver has been enter-taining and inspiring audiences with his thoughts on goal-setting, personal achievement and human potential. His proudest moment came in 2003 when he was invited to share his “Rules for Beating the Odds” at the very school where teachers had given up on him. His strategies for fi nding a better life and building self-esteem are ingenious and refreshing. H

NISH President and CEO Bob Chamberlin presents this year’s National Awards Banquet Emcee, Nelsen Lauver, with an American fl ag.


Summer 2012 | 31

Community Awards

Government Award for State/Local Offi cialsThis award recogizes state and local government officials/ policymakers who have relationships with and who support AbilityOne®-producing NPAs, and encourage their continued support of local NPAs and AbilityOne Program efforts.

Phil DickersonPitt County GovernmentGreenville, N.C.

Pitt County, N.C. engineer, Phil Dickerson, has championed oppor-tunities for people with significant disabilities for a quarter-century. His engineering services and technical expertise have led to the creation of dozens of new jobs for people with disabilities in the community while simultaneously producing a positive financial impact for the county government. Throughout his career, Dickerson has been an exemplary advocate for the mission of Eastern Carolina Vocational Center, Inc. (ECVC) and the individuals it serves.

“Phil Dickerson is a profes-sional with experience in both the private and public sectors,” said Bob Jones, ECVC President. “He provided expert direction during the planning and construction of an addition to ECVC’s prevoca-tional program building and several expansions of our recycling opera-

tions. Repeatedly over the years, he has acted in the best interests of the county while also helping to create jobs for people with disabilities. He is deserving of this award because of the longevity and consistency of his advocacy for the employment of people with disabilities throughout Pitt County.”

An example of Dickerson’s contribu-tions to ECVC was the design and construction of a storage system for recycled glass. Dickerson went so far as to don coveralls and work gloves in order to perform some of the manual labor necessary to build the system.

Under Dickerson’s leadership, Pitt County government has performed a long list of actions to promote the employment of people with disabili-ties. It made a $1.2 million capital investment in the expansion of ECVC’s recycling operation so that it would be capable of processing materials from municipal, institu-tional, commercial and industrial programs. ECVC has benefited directly via a county contract to

process 48 million pounds of materi-als annually. Pitt County also utilizes ECVC employees with disabilities to perform custodial services at many of its buildings, including the facility that houses the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) team involved with assisting residents affected by Hurricane Irene. Finally, Pitt County transferred the manage-ment of prevocational services to ECVC and donated engineering services for the construction of the additional building space necessary for the program.

Th e corresponding statistics of Pitt County’s support for the employment of people with disabilities are impres-sive. ECVC’s custodial, recycling and prevocational operations provide 51 full-time and 29 part-time jobs for people with disabilities. Th ose employees earned wages and benefi ts totaling more than $1.5 million in 2011. Th e benefi ts of the ECVC and Pitt County partnership work both ways. ECVC’s recycling operation produced $257,000 in cost savings last year for the county.

Dickerson has stood by ECVC even through tough financial times. In 2011, when it appeared that a house-keeping contract might be sharply reduced or eliminated because of budgetary shortfalls, Dickerson negotiated a new contract with ECVC that reduced costs without compelling any cuts in the number of jobs for people with disabilities employed by the contract.

Phil Dickerson is a remarkable advocate for both Pitt County govern-ment and people with disabilities striv-ing for the independence and respect they earn from employment. H

Pictured from left to right: Bill Coleman, Jr., NISH Board chair; Bob Jones, ECVC, accepting on behalf of Phil Dickerson; and Bob Chamberlin, NISH President & CEO.

32 | NISH WORKPLACE

Community Awards

Commercial Business Partnership (in Support of the AbilityOne Program)Th is award recognizes a commercial business that has partnered with an AbilityOne®-producing nonprofi t agency (NPA) to increase the employability of people with signifi cant disabilities.

Lovelace Health SystemsAlbuquerque, N.M.

Lovelace Health Systems is a healthcare industry leader in N.M. and their reliance on Adelante for document shredding services at all of their hospitals and clinics has helped to showcase the high quality of work performed by individu-als with disabilities. Lovelace also helped to greatly expand Adelante’s document shredding business by recommending it to a local doctor’s consortium, ABQ Health Partners, with dozens of clinic locations across the state. Today, Adelante shreds some 800,000 pounds of paper annually for Lovelace and ABQ Health Partners. Jobs for people with disabilities simultaneously have expanded during the past four years by 83 percent.

“Lovelace considers Adelante an extension of our company,” said Serena Lyons, director of market-ing and business development at Lovelace Health System. “We

rely on them for so many of our day-to-day business activities. Their employees have always been the most professional, reliable and responsive. Not only do we partner with them for our needs, but we are also their health insurance provider. We consider it a great privilege to serve Adelante and we know that we are fortunate to have such a remark-able partnership.”

The Lovelace and Adelante business relationship goes beyond pure job creation. In 2011, Lovelace provided free flu shots to all Adelante employees, spouses, and children over four years of age. Lovelace also supports the Adelante wellness committee. It helped host a wellness fair and donated a variety of free items such as stress balls, pedome-ters, door prizes and other products for healthy living.

“All of us at Adelante were very excited to have Lovelace be recog-nized by the AbilityOne Program with this award,” said Adelante CEO

Mike Kivitz. “We are firm believers that AbilityOne contracts should be starting points for businesses that employ people with disabilities, but the strongest social enterprises are those that have a strong commer-cial base as well. Lovelace has not only been a long-time customer of Adelante document destruction services, they have provided multi-ple referrals for our businesses, testifying to the quality of service we provide. Having respected business entities like Lovelace speak up for us has truly helped us expand our business and provide more employment opportunities for people with disabilities.”

According to Lyons, Lovelace believes that organizations that employ and support people with disabilities are richer for it. “Work and careers are incredibly important for so many individuals, regardless of ability,” Lyons said. “We all know that the work we do enriches our lives by improving our job skills, creating relationships and giving us the chance to succeed. Lovelace believes everyone should have that same chance.”

Lovelace has proven to be an invalu-able partner to Adelante by helping it to achieve an important, longtime goal—establish a foothold in a new industry and then build the business by diversifying the customer base to commercial contracts.

“We think so highly of Adelante, its staff and its values, so to receive this award and to be nominated by Adelante was a true honor,” Lyons said. “It truly is humbling to be recognized by such an amazing organization.” H

Mike Kivitz (center), of Adelante, accepts the award on behalf of Lovelace Health Systems presented by (far left) NISH Board Chair Bill Coleman, Jr. and (far right) NISH President and CEO Bob Chamberlin.

Summer 2012 | 33

Community Awards

Commercial Business Partnership(in Support of the AbilityOne Program)Th is award recognizes a commercial business that has partnered with an AbilityOne®-producing nonprofi t agency (NPA) to increase the employability of people with signifi cant disabilities.

MeijerGrand Rapids, Mich.

Th e Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer, Meijer, is an exceptional example of an organization commit-ted to improving the lives of persons with disabilities. It has recognized the value of hiring workers with disabilities for more than 25 years. When the company moved its fresh food assembly department in-house, it turned to Peckham, Inc. to help recruit qualifi ed employees with the goal of creating new jobs for people with disabilities. In the process, it discovered that matching a person’s abilities to the job was a successful hiring model for both persons with and without disabilities. By focusing on what a person can do and building on individual strengths, the retailer now benefi ts from a happier and more productive workforce.

Meijer operates 197 supercenters and grocery stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. As a pioneer of the “one-stop

shopping” concept, Meijer stores have evolved through the years to include expanded fresh produce and meat departments, as well as pharmacies, comprehensive electronics depart-ments, garden centers and apparel.

Meijer’s commitment to inclusion and creating a respectful work environ-ment has been key to the success of its partnership with Peckham. Th e retailer does not tolerate workplace discrimination and emphasizes dignity and respect.

As a part of its commitment to hiring people with disabilities, Meijer has teamed up with a business group called the “Knowledge Exchange” that includes representatives from Lowe’s, Best Buy, Walgreens, TJX Corpora-tion, Bank of America and Peckham. Th e group has traveled to each other’s facilities to discuss best practices in the employment of people with disabilities. “Th is dedication to hiring people with disabilities comes from the top at Meijer,” said Calley Green, Peckham, Inc. business development

specialist. “Th e intentional eff ort on Meijer’s part to look past a person’s limitations and focus on their ability and what they bring to the team is why they deserve this award.”

According to Lisa Haywood-Kertcha-val, former human resources manager for Meijer, the retailer has measur-ably improved morale, job satisfac-tion and staff retention by using the same job matching techniques and accommodations it developed for individuals with disabilities for all of its employees. “Th is measurable success is for the company as a whole and not only for people with disabili-ties,” Haywood-Kertchaval said. “Th e bottom-line for our business is reduced costs associated with recruit-ment and retention and increased profi ts for the company,” Haywood-Kertchaval added. “Improved morale and job satisfaction for the employees is simply good business.”

Meijer has committed to fi lling 40 percent of its positions in the fresh assembly department with people with disabilities. Th e jobs are challenging. Th ey require staff to follow strict safety and food manufacturing procedures, complete intensive training and pay close attention to detail. Th e retailer did an excellent job training employees to ensure they understood the safety and manufacturing practices critical to correct food preparation. Supervi-sors encouraged workers to discuss issues and develop solutions quickly and respectfully. Meijers new employ-ees with disabilities have developed friendships and enjoy the benefi ts of working. Th ey love their jobs and several have moved into independent living for the fi rst time. H

Mitch Tomlinson (center), of Peckham, accepts the award on behalf of Meijer.

DOMA TechnologiesVirginia Beach, Va.

DOMA Technologies has opened the door to a new career option for AbilityOne Program employees by helping several nonprofi t agencies (NPAs) launch a paper-to-digital conversion business and by entering into a three-year technical services consulting agreement with NISH. Th e collaboration began by DOMA lending its expertise to Eggleston Services in Norfolk, Va. Th at partner-ship proved so successful that NISH subsequently launched a pilot program that included three additional NPAs: Th e Greater Richmond ARC, iScan and ServiceSource.

DOMA specializes in the conversion of paper documents into industry-standard digital and secure web-based formats. Th e fi rm owns, develops, and manages its own enterprise-wide web-based document management platform utilizing an on-demand soft ware (aka Soft ware as a Service or SaaS) delivery method.

DOMA’s SaaS-based solutions promote effi cient business practices through secure web-based systems that can be centrally managed and easily accessed anytime, anywhere, securely over the Internet. It saves customers considerable time and money as compared to the costs of continuing to perform document imaging in-house. Th is specialization aff ords DOMA an excellent platform from which to personalize their services for each customer.

At Eggleston, two new document conversion centers provide jobs for 32 people with disabilities. Several of those workers were trained in place at DOMA’s facility and three individu-als with disabilities now work for DOMA. Th e fi rm’s customers include the Department of Defense, state agencies and a long list of commercial enterprises in the healthcare, legal, banking, higher education, commu-nications, real estate, construction and other industries.

“DOMA is a great fi t for Eggleston

and we see a bright future together. DOMA’s expertise has given us the credibility to enter a fairly technical fi eld.” said Paul Atkinson, CEO and president of Eggleston Services.

Document imaging involves a series of progressive tasks that offers a path for career growth to people with significant disabilities. Also, some of the work such as quality control and indexing can be performed remotely from home.

“We are honored to be selected for this award,” said DOMA’s Chief Operat-ing Offi cer Mr. Wayne DeAtley. “We believe our platform can provide jobs to many more people with disabilities in communities across the country and we foresee many more job opportuni-ties with the federal government via the AbilityOne Program.”

DOMA’s new technical services consulting contract with NISH is intended to establish document conver-sion as a new and rapidly growing line of service. DOMA will help NISH create a NPA business operations model, assist in the development of a marketing strategy and implementa-tion, collect and evaluate best practices and establish industry standards.

“For Eggleston and other NPAs, the creation of employment through partnerships is a key strategic goal to ensure that desirable jobs for persons with disabilities are available for years to come,” Atkinson said. “A number of federal and state laws now require the transfer of paper records to digital formats. By tapping into the rising demand for this service, we are leveraging new technologies to create more jobs for people with disabilities.” H

34 | NISH WORKPLACE

Small Business Partnership AwardTh is award recognizes a small business that has partnered with AbilityOne®-producing nonprofi t agencies (NPAs) and contributed to increased employment opportunities for people with signifi cant disabilities.

Community Awards

DOMA Co-Founder Pat Feliciano (center) accepts the award presented by NISH Board Chair Bill Coleman, Jr. (left) and NISH President and CEO Bob Chamberlin (right).

36 | NISH WORKPLACE

BIG IDEA

Big Idea Exchange

The third year in its existence, The Big Idea Exchange serves as an ideal platform for nonprofi t agencies to network with peers to discuss innovative ideas, best practices and current initiatives. This peer exchange generates ‘the winning formula’ for success in creating jobs for people with signifi cant disabilities.

38 | NISH WORKPLACE

NISH Academy

Summer 2012 | 39

NISH Academy

The NISH Academy provides an exciting opportunity for conference attendees to learn about additional plans for continued service improvement and tap into the knowledge base of subject matter experts.

One of the sessions offered at this year’s conference was moderated by Dr. Carol Lowman (above), deputy director of the Army Contracting Command and U.S. AbilityOne Commission™ member. The Pricing and Financial Perspectives and the AbilityOne® Program session was comprised of a panel of subject matter experts.

40 | NISH WORKPLACE

NISH Academy

(Left) Robert Carl (Shof) Shofner, director, Enterprise Sourcing Group, Air Force Materiel Command, U.S. Air Force and (Right) William (Bill) Sisk, assistant commissioner, Offi ce of General Supplies and Services, Federal Acquisition Service, General Services Administration; offer contracting advice to attendees.

(L to R) Teresa (Teri) Ryan, senior acquisition analyst, Logistics Management Institute; Dr. Sylvia Stokes, professor of Contracting, Contract Management Department, Defense Acquisition University and Patricia Briscoe, deputy director, Business Operations, Pricing and Information Management, U.S. AbilityOne Commission

42 | NISH WORKPLACE

Hats Off

Former Commanding Officer of USS John F. Kennedy Joins Chimes DC

Chimes DC, a subsidiary of Chimes International Limited, one of the nation’s leading provid-ers of services to people with disabili-ties, recently announced that Ronald H.

Henderson, Jr. has joined the organiza-tion as Chief Operating Officer.

Henderson brings more than three decades of military leadership experi-ence to his new role with Chimes DC. During his career with the U.S. Navy, he served as the Commanding Officer of the USS John F. Kennedy and the USS Juneau. He was also a naval aviator, logging more than 3,800 tactical jet flight-hours. He retired with the rank of Rear Admiral in 2010. He also served as assistant chief of staff for Operations

of the NATO Striking Forces, deputy director for Operations, National Military Command Center and most recently as senior defense official and Defense Attaché, United Kingdom.

In his new role with Chimes, Hender-son will oversee and manage opera-tions of all programs and services for Chimes DC, including manag-ing funding, program development and quality assurance. Chimes DC currently provides employment oppor-tunities for more than 1,700 people with disabilities through AbilityOne® contracts at an annual rate of more than $75 million. These contracts have been spread over 130 community agencies in five states throughout the region and the District of Columbia.

“We are thrilled to have Ron on board as COO at Chimes DC,” said Marty Lampner, President & CEO of Chimes International. “The execu-tive leadership abilities he’s developed and implemented around the globe through his military career will serve him well in managing the day-to-day operations of Chimes DC. In addition,

his knowledge of federal government operations and procurement processes will be an asset as our team at Chimes DC continues to provide a wide array of services to United States military and government facilities. Finally, his genuine interest in expanding employment opportunities for people with disabilities fits perfectly with the mission of Chimes DC.”

Chimes International LimitedChimes is an international multi-service agency delivering a wide range of programs, services and supports to more than 17,000 people of all ages and many levels of ability. Chimes employs more than 3,000 people. Our Family of Services includes agencies in six states, the District of Columbia, and Israel. We assist people with devel-opmental disabilities, mental illness and other specialized needs. All of our services and facilities in the Chimes Family of Services are state licensed and accredited. Chimes International is the support organization for Chimes Family of Services and provides execu-tive management and business support services. www.Chimes.org H

Ronald H. Henderson, Jr.

NISH

WorkplaceNISH8401 Old Courthouse RoadVienna, VA 22182

Address service requested

Non-ProfitOrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDReston, VA

Permit No. 84

NISH offers a wide range of training opportunities through the NISH Academy for Leadership, Performance & Development. For more information, to request a 2012 training calendar or to register for courses, please contact the NISH Training Team at 571/226-4660 or visit the NISH Web site at www.nish.org.

NISH Mission Create employment opportunities for people with significant disabilities.

NISH Training CalendarSeptember

5, 6 Managing Your AbilityOne Contract Chicago, IL

5, 6 Disability Awareness: Train the Trainer San Francisco, CA

5, 6 Healthcare Environmental Services: Advanced Atlanta, GA

5, 6, 7 Needs Based Selling and Delivering Superior Customer Service Vienna, VA

11, 12, 13 4 Roles of Leadership Atlanta, GA

11, 12, 13 AbilityOne Academy Vienna, VA

11, 12, 13 Intro to Lean: Attack Waste and Improve Customer Service Albany, NY

12, 13 Certified Laundry and Linen Management (CLLM) Review - Association for Linen Management (ALM) Phoenix, AZ

12, 13 Occupational Safety and Health Training: Creating Safe Workplaces for Employees with Disabilities San Antonio, TX

12, 13, 14 Floor Care Technician Certification Course (FCT) Three-Day Hands-On IICRC Certification Course Dayton, OH

19, 20 Time Studies: Determining Commensurate Wages for Employees Paid Piece Rates & Employees Paid Hourly Minneapolis, MN

18, 19, 20 Document Destruction Operations Vienna, VA

18, 19, 20, 21 MODAPTS 1- Basic Practitioner Certification Las Vegas, NV

19, 20 AbilityOne Business Development Seminar: Tools for Growing Your Business San Francisco, CA

19, 20 Certified Facility Management (CFM) Exam Review New York, NY

24, 25 Contact Center Services Best Practices Framework Las Vegas, NV

24, 25 Foundation and Corporate Grantsmanship Vienna, VA

24, 25 Overview of Government Contracting for CRPs San Antonio, TX

Documents

Workplace Summer 2012