This past week Muskegon County’s Intellectual and Developmental Disability System of Care Consortium Workforce Subcommittee came together to create six Employer Recognition Awards for the organizations in the community that offer exceptional community partnerships and outstanding dedication to supporting job placement for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. MOKA was thrilled to join Goodwill, Michigan Rehabilitation Services, Health West, Pioneer Resource, and Preferred Employment & Living Supports to grant these awards to each provider’s chosen Muskegon area employer. Each of the chosen employers was recognized for their dedication to inclusion in our community and received a plaque, gift bag with swag from participating providers, an award letter, and a plant to say thank you for their involvement.
MOKA’s chosen employer was Scherdel Sales & Technology. Scherdel currently works with two individuals from MOKA’s Supported Employment Program and has won the hearts of many in our organization because of their commitment to providing a steady and supportive working environment. “Scherdel and the team at every level have been welcoming, supportive, creative, flexible and accommodating to the individuals they employ whenever possible. They’re open to feedback from their employees and MOKA, they are eager and open to collaborating and looking at each situation, and have a desire to find a win-win solution whenever possible. Scherdel has created a workplace culture where everyone feels like part of the team. Whether it is competitive incentives, opportunities for growth, or participating in workplace parties and meetings, Scherdel exceeds expectations and ensures all are welcome,” said a representative from MOKA’s supported employment program.
Jaicarri, an individual served by MOKA and an employee of Scherdel Sales & Technology gave a heartfelt thank you to his employer while presenting the Employer Recognition Award. “It is so amazing to have a job. And for you to offer a place for people like me, who want to work. Because there are people that want to work, that don’t always get to, because they feel like they can’t.” Jaicarri’s thanks were met with appreciation by the Scherdel team. Offering praise for his work ethic and gratitude that he can be counted on in the workplace.
We at MOKA are so happy to be able to take the time to recognize Scherdel Sales & Technology as well as the other outstanding employers in our community. Walmart- Whitehall location, Wendy’s- Norton Shores location, Reliant Cleaning, Meijer and Melissa Stuberg from Heart and Hands In Home Care were also chosen as employers that are making a difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities; paving the way for broader inclusion and employment opportunities in the future.
The I/DD Consortium Workforce Subcommittee is a group of community providers that are working together to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in West Michigan by providing supportive, educational, working environments.
For additional information on MOKA’s Supported Employment Program please visit: https://www.moka.org/supporting-employment-2