Client Wins NYSID Award
Nelson Hooper, 58, is a prime example of resilience. After overcoming years of alcohol abuse, Hooper is motivated, patient, and displays a dedication and work ethic that has earned him recognition as recipient of the 2011 William B. Joslin Outstanding Performance Award, which acknowledges outstanding job performance and personal success by individuals with disabilities who are employed through NYSID Preferred Source contracts.
Hooper received the award, which included a commemorative plaque and $1,000 check, at NYSID's September 19th Annual Meeting in Albany.
Seven years ago, after completing an outpatient rehabilitation treatment program at Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center, Hooper was referred to the FEGS Porter Training Program by ACCES/VR (formerly VESID). Through the program, he learned valuable skills of floor and rug care, OSHA safety procedures, and other skills that he continues to use in his present job as a Team Leader, overseeing various projects at the Hauppauge State Office Building in Long Island, a position he has held since 2007. Although he has a 2½ hour commute from the Bronx each day, Hooper has not been late nor missed a single day of work in the past seven years!
"Nelson's accomplishments reflect the kind of success we hope to achieve with every FEGS client," said Cary Alex, Senior Vice President for FEGS Work Services Division. "He has changed the course of his life and become a proud and independent member of the community." He noted that FEGS' long-standing relationship with NYSID remains "one of FEGS' most productive partnerships, which helps more than 300 individuals with disabilities obtain meaningful employment."
Each year, FEGS' Work Services Division provides rehabilitation, employment preparation, job coaching, placement, case management, and social services to more than a thousand individuals with developmental, psychiatric, or physical disabilities. The Division's programs complement FEGS' other workforce initiatives that helped 6,100 individuals find employment over the past year.
Source - New York Nonprofit Press