A major reward!
The Governor’s Committee on the Employment of People with Disabilities presented Old Spokes Home with the Spirit of ADA Award.
We were nominated by our partner, Kathy Johnson, at Vermont Association for Business Industry, and Rehabilitation (VABIR).
The letter states that “the award is presented to individuals and businesses who reflect the spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act in employment practices, including accessibility, recruiting, hiring, accommodating and support for a person(s) with disability as an overall employment strategy.
Old Spokes Home/Bike Recycle Vermont enthusiastically welcomed, instructed, and supported an individual from Bhutan with the communication challenge of hearing impairment/deafness. This individual, although learning American Sign Language, is more comfortable using Nepali Sign Language; therefore, a specialized interpreter was made available as needed for job training as well as for discussion around expectations of paid employees. A work experience was offered initially to allow him to develop his skills and comfort levels in a supportive environment. Considering him as part of the work family, staff went to great lengths to learn communication strategies, such as: improvisation, basic sign language, and the use of pictures and drawing. It is a mutual gain for the successful hiring of this Apprentice Bike Technician at Old Spokes Home.”
We are honored, excited to keep working with Chuda, grateful for supportive community partners like Kathy and VABIR — and determined to create more opportunities in our shops for people from all backgrounds and of all abilities to enjoy and benefit from bicycles.
link to full story with video:
https://www.oldspokeshome.com/blog/major-reward?mc_cid=f298260f99&mc_eid=2a2a560404
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