CCBDD hosting event to recognize disabilities hiring

SALEM - The Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities will be hosting an informational session at Lib's Market in Salem Wednesday in recognition of October being National Disabilities Employment Awareness Month.

From 8 to 10 a.m., staff from the CCBDD's Reach 4 More Employment Program will be present to answer questions and explain the benefits of hiring those with disabilities. In addition to complimentary coffee and tea, patrons who visit with the CCBDD staff will also receive free mugs.

"We just want to make potential employers aware of the capabilities of our clients and the skills that they bring to the workforce," said Bill Devon, CCBDD superintendent.

Lib's Market owner Ben Ratner recognizes the capabilities of employees who have disabilities. Ratner employs two CCBDD clients, one who has been with the business for four years.

"Our local business community continues to impress me," said Devon. "Employers have been proactive in hiring people with disabilities. Once they hire them, the employers are quick to include these employees in varied aspects and areas of their businesses. Our clients really enjoy being out in the community and contributing to the success of the companies that they work for."

Devon praised the dedication of Reach 4 More Business Engagement Specialist Paul Anthony saying, "Paul is continually out there making inroads with the businesses. He also makes sure that there is a successful support system for our clients so that they can thrive in the workforce."

In the coming weeks, Reach 4 More will be recognizing their longtime participants.

"We have some clients who have been continuously employed at the same location for an extended number of years," said Anthony. "For example, we have one client who has worked at the same location for 18 years. Another client has worked for 13 years. We have yet another client who has worked at one location for six years. Once our clients get hired, their dedication and skill keeps them employed. They each have a tremendous work ethic. To show how incredibly proud we are of them, our CCBDD board is preparing to properly recognize their conscientious devotion to their jobs."

Lib's Market is located at 474 E. State St. in Salem. Their phone number is 330-337-6962.