October 31, 2016
by: Emily Hastings
Employment Partner Testimonials
Today marks the last day of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Here at UCP, we know the value that can come from hiring a person with a disability, but we would like you to hear from some of our valued employment partners about their experiences.
Novitex Enterprise Solutions
In August 2015, Michael began working in the Cleveland Clinic mail center, which is operated by Novitex Enterprise Solutions. There, he sorts mail for the entire organization, looks up destinations for mail pieces, and runs the meter that puts postage on outgoing mail. In order to run the meter machine, Michael had to become familiar with accounting codes and putting in the correct codes to process mail, which his manager, Audri Calhoun, said he picked up on really quickly. Michael also acts as a mail courier for the Walker Building of the main Cleveland Clinic campus, where employees have really taken a liking to him. When he first started working at Novitex, he was rather quiet and introverted, but has since come out of his shell. He has a good sense of humor and will tell a joke when you least expect it.
Michael is very dedicated to his job; he takes two buses to get there and is never late, which demonstrates his commitment. “He’s honestly the ideal employee,” said Audri. “He’s polite with a good work ethic and he’s a good team player.” In fact, Michael is so knowledgeable about the work the company does, that he has helped to train a few new employees. There’s not anything he won’t do when it’s asked of him. He is a very hard worker and always wants to be busy.
Novitex is very good at embracing diversity, and Audri said that she would recommend that other companies look into hiring people with disabilities. “It adds so much to an organization. Whatever kind of service the company provides, I think it’s important to give these young adults with disabilities a chance. People have a preconceived notion that people with disabilities can’t function and work, but that’s not the case. You have to do your homework and find a good fit (for the company). I would encourage any employer to open their minds.”
Forest City
In February of 2015, Christine started working at Forest City in the scanning and document imaging department where she made a lasting impression on her manager, Theresa Cale. Before Christine’s arrival, there was some apprehension amongst the department as they watched Christine’s soon-to-be work area become converted to be ADA accessible. But soon all their worries dissipated. Christine joined the department and within no time was “one of the girls,” sharing stories from home and tales of cooking attempts. Christine’s openness and great personality put everyone at ease despite any physical differences between them. Christine would begin all her days at Forest City by saying hello to every one with a smile on her face and an enthusiastic attitude towards work. During her initial training period, Christine was not shy about asking questions so that she could learn the job to the best of her ability; when she began working on her own, she would still ask questions whenever she needed clarification. But soon the questions stopped, except for, “What is next for me to do?” Christine set personal goals for herself, such as doubling her daily scan count. By the time Christine left Forest City, due to outsourcing of the department in July of 2016, she was able to scan 500-800 pages a day with no errors. She also mastered scanning journal entries, which was initially a daunting task. When Theresa was asked whether she would recommend other companies hire individuals with disabilities, she responded, “without a doubt,” noting Christine’s dedication to her position and to her team.
For more information about hiring individuals with disabilities, please contact OakLeaf Partners Transition Services Manager Sharon Meixner at (216) 791-8363, ext. 1261 or smeixner@ucpcleveland.org.
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