MOUNT VERNON — In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, New Hope Industries celebrates all individuals with disabilities employed in the community and businesses that employ them.
This year’s theme is “Access to Good Jobs for All.”
As part of this year’s NDEAM celebration, New Hope Industries recognizes Patrick Lovell and the Kenyon Inn & Restaurant.
Patrick Lovell
Lovell has been a valued employee at Ver-Mac Industries for two years and works full-time in the production department. He operates a specialized machine that manufactures metal sign holders, showcasing his trusted skills.
Lovell simultaneously assembles boxes as he produces the sign holders, carefully labeling them with his initials and the date. Once the sign holders are complete, he places them into the boxes, seals them, and places them on a pallet for distribution.
Since his first day on the job, Lovell has consistently demonstrated diligence and efficiency. Renowned for his exceptional work ethic, he frequently sets new records at work.
In April, he achieved an impressive milestone by producing 14,400 sign-holders in just 9.5 hours — a feat that speaks to his dedication and skill.
His co-workers often commend his unwavering commitment and reliability, joking that he has never missed a day of work and never will!
Lovell has said he thoroughly enjoys working at Ver-Mac. He loves the environment, and he gets along with all his coworkers.
“Patrick is the most dependable worker I have ever had. He is timely, hardworking, and constantly challenges himself to better himself,” HR Director Stacy Smith said.
The Kenyon Inn & Restaurant
New Hope Industries values all community employers who go above and beyond to provide employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities. Employers provide needed accommodations and communicate openly with the individuals, job coaches, and support staff to ensure the individual’s safety, well-being, and overall success.
The Kenyon Inn & Restaurant has been a valuable partner of New Hope Industries throughout the past year. Its continued support has been instrumental in the success of the employees there.
The company has been welcoming and inclusive of individuals with disabilities. The management and staff aim to show they truly care for them by celebrating their birthdays with them, including them in company dinners and outings, and encouraging them to take on larger roles throughout the hotel.
The staff consistently engages in conversation with their employees to better understand their personalities and interests and any issues and accommodations needed.
“The Kenyon Inn & Restaurant has provided a safe workplace for our individuals and has cultivated an environment where individuals are not confined to specific roles but are encouraged to try new tasks and develop as employees within the community,” Angela Sichel, community employment services manager for New Hope Industries, said.
“They have shown their continued support for our individuals by giving them the tools to succeed, such as written task lists and flexible schedules. They also played an important role in New Hope’s summer youth program, being accommodating and informative to youth exploring various job fields.
“We are grateful for the support that Kenyon Inn & Restaurant has provided.”