Shirley Bowald, Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities Employment and Community Inclusion Manager, addresses employers, staff and guests at the annual Employment Appreciation Dinner held at the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center in Lisbon. This year’s dinner coincided with the Robert Bycroft School’s 70th anniversary. (Submitted photo)
LISBON – The Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities (CCBDD) recognized local businesses who employ its clients during their annual Employment Appreciation Dinner at the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center.
This year’s dinner coincided with the 70th anniversary of Robert Bycroft School. In addition to business representatives, the guest list included Gerald Baker, who was the Robert Bycroft superintendent from 1972 to 2006, current school staff members and many others who have been instrumental in the institution’s success through the years.
Shirley Bowald, employment and community inclusion manager, said the dinner is a way for the board to recognize and thank the employers and agencies that help individuals with developmental disabilities succeed in the workplace.
“There are so many people to thank and celebrate with,” Bowald said. “In addition to more than 40 businesses who employ our clients, we receive assistance from many agencies who provide services like transportation, job coaching, training and development programs.”
People with disabilities work in a wide variety of areas, ranging from food preparation, janitorial/maintenance, lawn and garden services, grocery, industrial and manufacturing and data/technical services. Bowald said people with developmental disabilities bring many skills to the job market as well as a positive attitude about work.
“Our clients have a wide variety of talents and abilities, and they are very dedicated to their jobs,” she said. “They’ll stay in it for the long haul.”
The CCBDD employment program is a supportive program that works together with many agencies to help people find jobs. Throughout the employees’ tenure, they provide support services and opportunities for training and advancement. Employers who are interested in getting involved with the program may call Bowald at 330-424-7788 ext. 133.
