Businesses Making a Difference
#DiverseTalent #InclusiveEmployment #CommunitySupport
Alexander Sumerwell is a well-mannered, caring, and helpful individual. Prior to the pandemic, he worked as a front-end assistant at McDonald’s. He has also volunteered at the Salvation Army, CVS, and La Mexicana. On March 14, 2024, Alexander was hired at BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse, where he sorts, polishes and rolls silverware.
In preparation for interviewing, Alexander participated in the biannual EmployABILITY Showcase, Frederick County’s Reverse Job Fair for Individuals with Disabilities. He also attended the job fair’s workshop and dress rehearsal giving him the opportunity to put his best foot forward.
When asked what he likes best about working in his new job, Alexander stated, “It is good and great! I like polishing and rolling the silverware. I like meeting new people. I like the servers. I like getting a paycheck.”
We want to thank BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse for their outstanding commitment supporting people in competitive, integrated employment. This has been a great opportunity for Alexander as it provides him with an environment that allows him to thrive, and work as part of a team.
For more information about the EmployABILITY Showcase, contact Randy Kiser at randyk@clifrederick.org.
Pictured from left to right are Richard Pagella, Manager at BJ’s; Alexander Sumerwell; and Jason Crowl, Job Coach
Submitted by: Community Living, Inc.
Nicholas Chomiak is an intelligent, “genuine soul”, who demonstrates positivity and can pick others up. He is a good worker, fully enjoys being around other people, and working in an environment that promotes customer service and satisfaction.
Nicholas has been working at Weis Markets on Thomas Johnson Drive since September 14th, 2021. At Weis he manages the carts, faces products on the shelves, provides customer service, and performs light custodial work, keeps the store tidy and provides customers with an overall better shopping experience.
In preparation for interviewing, Nicholas participated in the biannual EmployABILITY Showcase, Frederick County’s Reverse Job Fair for Individuals with Disabilities. He also attended the job fair’s workshop and dress rehearsal giving him the opportunity to put his best foot forward.
In early April of this year, Nicholas and his mom went to Beans & Dreams Nektarios Place in Middletown, after hearing that they were hiring. Upon meeting Nicholas and seeing his bright, inquisitive personality, he was hired on the spot. He began part time work at the new Middletown café on April 9, 2024.
When asked what he likes best about working in his new Nicholas said: “I love my job”, “I like going behind the counters and taking peoples orders and filling them”, “I like talking to customers and greeting them and welcoming them”. Nicholas is currently working at both locations.
We want to thank Weis Supermarket and Beans & Dreams Nektario’s Place for their outstanding commitment supporting people in competitive, integrated employment. These have been amazing opportunities for Nicholas as they provide him the environments he needs to demonstrate his customer service skills, independence, and work as part of a team.
For more information about the EmployABILITY Showcase, contact Randy Kiser at randyk@clifrederick.org.
Pictured from left to right are Tim Rifenberg, job coach; Nicholas Chomiak; and Nektarios, CEO
Submitted by: Community Living, Inc.
Jesse Crum, a quiet, personable, thoughtful person, is currently working as a full-time custodial employee with Horizon Goodwill Industries at Fort Detrick. Jesse is a hard worker who is responsible to the commitment of full-time employment and enjoys working in the team environment there.
In preparation for interviewing, Jesse participated in the biannual EmployABILITY Showcase, Frederick County’s Reverse Job Fair for Individuals with Disabilities. He also attended the job fair’s workshop and dress rehearsal giving him the opportunity to put his best foot forward.
After applying for the position and working with Max Douge at Frederick County Workforce Services, Jesse was offered an interview and subsequent job offer. He began his benefitted position on April 1, 2024. When asked what he likes best about working in his new role he stated that he likes the people he is working with, enjoys doing multiple job duties, and talking to new people.
We want to thank Frederick County Workforce Services and Horizon Goodwill for their outstanding commitment supporting people in competitive, integrated employment. This has been an amazing opportunity for Jesse as it provides him the latitude he needs to remain challenged, demonstrate his independence and work as part of a team.
For more information about the EmployABILITY Showcase, contact Randy Kiser at randyk@clifrederick.org.
Submitted by: Community Living, Inc.
Marie Fleitz is an intelligent, multi-talented person with a laser-like focus who enjoys a broad spectrum of activities. She is currently working part-time as an assistant with Black Ankle Vineyards in Mount Airy while volunteering at both Advanced Biofuels in Frederick as a data entry clerk, and at Mid-Maryland Performing Arts Center doing light cleaning. With her variety of outside interests, including dance (jazz, ballet, tap, and modern), playing piano, listening to pop country music, reading, roller skating, and cheerleading, she still finds time for other activities such as snow tubing and gardening.
In preparation for interviewing, Marie has participated in two of the biannual EmployABILITY Showcases, Frederick County’s Reverse Job Fair for Individuals with Disabilities. She also attended the job fair’s workshop and dress rehearsal giving her the opportunity to put her best foot forward.
When asked what she likes best about working in her latest role at Black Ankle Vineyards, Marie stated, “It is good! I like gardening. I like working with the supervisors, they are nice people to work with. I like getting a paycheck.”
We want to thank Black Ankle Vineyards for their outstanding commitment supporting people in competitive, integrated employment. This opportunity is allowing Marie to enjoy a rewarding work/life balance.
For more information about the EmployABILITY Showcase, contact Randy Kiser at randyk@clifrederick.org.
Pictured from Left to right: Elizabeth Samolis (manager), Marie Fleitz, Laura Parker (job coach)
Submitted by: Community Living, Inc.
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse in Frederick, MD, is embracing inclusivity by hiring individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Maria Beard has been with BJ's for two and a half years. Starting as a janitorial staff member, Maria's dedication and talent have seen her transition to food prep and making desserts. Her story highlights the transformative impact of giving opportunities to individuals with disabilities, fostering a culture of acceptance and diversity in the workplace.
Submitted by: Scott Key Center
Alex Higgs has been employed with Marshalls in Frederick since September of 2023, embodying his commitment as the retail store's dedicated maintenance associate. Alex takes pride in maintaining the cleanliness of the store's floors, breakroom, and restrooms, and delighting customers with his sparkling personality. Marshalls is just one of many businesses in Frederick County championing inclusivity by actively hiring individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Alex's supervisors have been very supportive of Alex's journey, showcasing the meaningful impact that fostering an inclusive workplace can have on people with disabilities.
Submitted by: Scott Key Center
In a significant stride toward fostering inclusive employment opportunities, Niki Wolf, a dedicated member of the Scott Key Center janitorial enclave for over 15 years, has found a new home at Phoenix Mecano. Phoenix Mecano is a global leader in the development and manufacture of enclosures and industrial components. The journey began last fall when Scott Key Center’s Job Seekers, a monthly vocational workshop that provides employment resources for individuals with disabilities, embarked on a tour of Phoenix Mecano's facility.
During the insightful visit, Tara, Human Resource Manager at Phoenix Mecano, discussed with job developers Marcia Galey and Katie Triplett from Scott Key Center about a potential employment opportunity for the individuals at Scott Key Center. As part of the collaboration, several candidates were initially considered to fill the role previously managed by a cleaning company. However, after conducting an informational interview and a job trial, it became evident that Niki Wolf stood out as the ideal candidate for this job.
Niki officially started her role as the new building janitor at Phoenix Mecano on December 11th, marking a significant milestone in her career. The Phoenix Mecano team was excited to welcome Niki to their team, recognizing her as a valuable addition to their dynamic and inclusive workforce. Richard Poole, Community Support Specialist at Scott Key Center, has been working closely with Eric Kay, Maintenance Technician at Phoenix Mecano, to create a customized work schedule tailored to Niki's abilities and preferences.
This collaborative effort reflects the commitment of both organizations to ensuring a smooth and supportive transition for Niki. Phoenix Mecano's dedication to fostering an inclusive work environment has been evident throughout the entire process. Tara and her team at Phoenix Mecano have been instrumental in facilitating a seamless integration for Niki and demonstrating the company's commitment to Scott Key Center’s mission.
Expressing gratitude for this partnership, Scott Key Center looks forward to furthering the initiative for a more diverse and inclusive work environment in Frederick County. The success story of Niki Wolf at Phoenix Mecano serves as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the positive impact of collaborative efforts in creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Scott Key Center strives to foster an inclusive environment where individuals with disabilities are not only welcomed but recognized for their unique abilities that can enrich the workforce and contribute positively to the community. Scott Key Center continues to advocate for a shift towards recognizing the untapped potential within the community of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Submitted by Katie Triplett, Scott Key Center
The Main Cup in Middletown, MD, is a Frederick County business that is leading the way in inclusivity by supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Carson Levitt has been an integral part of their team for over a year, serving as the restaurant's dedicated dishwasher. His passion for his work shines through, showcasing the invaluable contributions this unique talent pool brings to the workforce. The Main Cup has been a staunch supporter of Carson since his arrival in October of 2022, exemplifying the supportive environment fostered by businesses committed to diversity and inclusion.
Submitted by: Scott Key Center