Domino's Pizza
The East Bremerton Domino’s was recognized for their outstanding efforts to provide employment to people with disabilities. DVR counselor, LeAnne Raines, nominated Dominoes for the 17th Annual Governor’s Awards Program.
The Governors’ Awards Program recognizes employers for their efforts to recruit, hire, and promote the employment of individuals with disabilities.
People in the picture from Left to Right are Dan Eberle (Chairperson for The Governor's Committee on Disability Issues and Employment), Jeff Jordan (Client Holly Ridge Supports at Domino's Pizza), Adrienne Murphy (Previous Manager at E. Bremerton Store who now is Manager at Bremerton Store), and Karen Walter (Chairperson for The Washington State Business Leadership Network).
On October 15, 2007 at the Microsoft Conference Center in Redmond WA, the Governor’s Awards were presented. This event started at 9:00 am with a greeting from Governor Gregoire. She was unable to attend but through the technology of Microsoft a video presentation from Governor Gregoire started the Awards Procession. The Awards featured outstanding companies throughout the state of Washington for there contributions and support of individuals with disabilities in the work force.
When Domino’s was presented with the certificate of recognition Jeff yelled out in excitement “Yay”. He was very proud to be up on stage in front of hundreds of people clapping and recognizing Jeff’s employer Domino’s.
The Awards covered many levels of employers. Domino’s was nominated in the category of Small Private Employer of the Year. The overall award for this category went to Sea-Lect Plastics Corporation of Everett. Even though Domino’s didn’t win the overall award for the category it was a proud moment for Domino’s Manager Adrienne Murphy.
Dennis J Herzog of Holly Ridge Center notes that employers need not be afraid to hire a person with disabilities. There are many agencies that are trained to assist with the process to ensure that all measures are attempted so employment can be successful. Jeff Jordan and so many others in our community are the proof that with the proper supports in place that even people with the most significant disabilities can be productive and successful in employment.
Update for 2008:
Domino’s franchise Owner Greg Keller realized the contributions that people with disabilities could add to their company. On January 23, 2008, they hired Tim to work at their franchise located in Bremerton on Kitsap Way. Tim is a person with a developmental disability. His job was structured upon the success of Jeff from the East Bremerton Domino’s.
Jeff and Tim are just a few of the many success stories, of people with disabilities in the workforce. They have proved that their abilities and strength make them valued employees. Holly Ridge Center is proud to have been a contributing factor to their ongoing success.
