Submitted photo Fred Andrews of Italo’s Pizza in Lisbon was honored by the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities and their Reach 4 More program for his continued willingness to hire persons with disabilities. Paul Anthony, left, of Reach 4 More presents Andrews with his award. Also pictured are Italo’s employee David Brabant and CCBDD superintendent Bill Devon.

LISBON — With over 40 years in the restaurant business, Fred Andrews, the owner of Italo’s Pizza in Lisbon, knows a good employee when he sees one. A highly-valued member of Andrews’ Italo’s staff is David Brabant. 

A Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities (CCBDD) client, Brabant’s primary duty at Italo’s is washing dishes, but he is more than willing to help wherever he may be needed.

“David is a diligent worker,” Andrews noted. “He is a perfect example of a person with disabilities, who is able to work. David loves to work. Like many people with disabilities, David wants to be a contributing member of a cohesive work group.”

Italo’s is being recognized by Reach 4 More for hiring those with disabilities. Reach 4 More is an employment program of the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

“Business owners such as Fred are a pleasure to work with. They truly care about their employees,” said Paul Anthony, Reach 4 More’s Business Engagement Specialist. “He realizes the contribution that David makes to the business.”

Brabant, 41, has been involved with Reach 4 More since the program’s inception five years ago.

“We offer a wide spectrum of potential employees for a business owner to choose from,” said Anthony. “Our goal is to provide both our clients and the business owners a successful partnership. We want the employee and the employer to both have a positive experience.”

“We definitely encourage a person such as David, who is a reliable person,” Andrews said. “We appreciate having an employee who shows up, wants to work, and has a positive attitude.”

Andrews appreciates David’s positive attitude and willingness to work.

“People like David want to work and they are good at their assigned tasks. They help to develop teamwork within the staff,” noted the Italo’s owner. “Everyone is different.  We all have different strengths and weaknesses.”

Owning and operating a business in these economic times can be very trying, not only for the owner, but for their employees.

“David is a bright spot in the day. No matter what kind of day you’re having, he has the ability to make you laugh,” said Andrews. “For a business to be successful, it’s important for employees to work as a team. David is a very important member of our team here at Italo’s.”

“Paul does an excellent job of making connections with the local business owners and determining their needs,” said Devon when talking about Anthony’s efforts with the Reach 4 More program. “We have potential employees who can succeed in many types of businesses. Paul is determined to help our clients be successful. We value the relationship we have with Italo’s. Jeff is an enthusiastic owner of a vibrant business in our community.”

Businesses or individuals desiring more information on Reach 4 More can contact Anthony via email at p.anthony@ccbdd.net. Its website is www.reach4more.org.

— Submitted material