Mercer DD celebrates 4 workers making a difference

CELINA - Mercer County Board of Developmental Disabilities this week recognized four Mercer County residents for the difference they're making for their communities and their employers.

The recognition is part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual awareness campaign that takes place each October. The purpose of the month is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities, the agency said in a news release. This year's theme is "Celebrating Value and Talent."

Mercer DD spotlighted the employment and employers of four individuals with disabilities who are sharing their value and talents: Kaelin Overman, Fort Recovery, employed at The Gardens of Celina; Ramsey Leverette, Fort Recovery, employed at The Spiritual Center of Maria Stein; Camille Tebbe, Maria Stein, employed at the Minster McDonald's; and Diane Schwieterman, Maria Stein, employed at Bright Future Daycare in St. Henry.

Many employers who take the step to hire individuals with disabilities quickly discover the unique strengths they bring, explained a Mercer DD news release. They bring not only a strong work ethic, but a boost in workplace morale, according to the release.

Robin Goettemoeller, coordinator at the Retreat Center of Maria Stein and Montezuma, has seen firsthand how individuals with disabilities enrich the workplace. She commended her employee, Leverette, for the constant joy, grace and patience she brings to herself and the staff, exemplifying the value that inclusion adds.

"You shouldn't assume that they have limitations just because someone is on the [Autism] Spectrum," Goettemoeller said in the release. "It doesn't mean they don't have value and can't contribute back to the community," she continued.

"We are very excited to showcase our individuals that are employed during October," noted Shawn Thieman, superintendent of Mercer DD. "Through collaboration and inclusive thinking, we want to continue to spread the important message that all perspectives are valued, including those of individuals with disabilities. We hope these efforts will result in more success stories such as Kaelin, Ramsey, Camille and Diane."

The history of NDEAM can be traced back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." In 1962, the word "physically" was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

"When we embrace the talents and abilities of all individuals, our entire community thrives. Inclusion strengthens us, empowers our workforce, and benefits everyone we serve," said Thieman.

Mercer DD serves approximately 500 eligible children and adults in Mercer County through a wide range of programming, supports and services. For additional information, visit mercerdd.org. To view Camille Tebbe's video, visit Mercer DD's YouTube page or follow Mercer DD on Facebook.

Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about NDEAM by visiting dol.gov/ndeam.