No of Years of Service:
2.5 years @ 16-24 hours per month
Nominee Services:
Thomas assists people with disabilities at Abilities First's onsite supervised workshop in the assembly and packaging of subcontracted materials so they may gain vocational skills that will give them opportunities for employment in the community and enhance their self esteem.
Nominee Goals:
The nominees goals are to help people with disabilities enhance their self esteem, feel accepted by others and expand their abilities. Thomas does this by treating each program participant with respect and dignity. He greets each of them every day, speaking with each person one-on-one, looking past their disabilities. The volunteer service he provides helps the approx. 30 participants he works with to gain independance as they learn skills and earn their own money.
Nominee Impact:
Thomas' service benefits the community by helping people with disabilities - up to 15% of the population, become self-sufficient - reducing the reliance on other types of public support. He also sets an example of acceptance of people with disabilities in the community.
Why the Nominee Deserves this award?
Thomas is an incredibly dedicated volunteer. He comes to "work" without fail every Tuesday. He takes initiative to manage the work that is getting done and will even come in extra days when needed. Additionally, as a retired IBM employee, he was diligent in facilitating an IBM equipment grant (value $1,000 +) for the participants at the workshop.
Video Commentary:
Nominee video commentary not available
Audio Commentary:
Nominee audio commentary not available
