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Easterseals is highlighting longtime business partners who support employment of people with disabilities as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October. Zingo’s Supermarket in Newark, Staples, Inc., in Dover and Casapulla’s in Rehoboth Beach, DE have participated in Easterseals’ Supported Employment program for a combined total of 67 years – each giving individuals with disabilities the opportunity to work for competitive wages in the community.

Through supported employment, workers with disabilities are matched with jobs in local businesses with the assistance of job coaching and training. Easterseals Employment Specialists provide ongoing individualized training and coaching to ensure long-term success on the job.

Zingo’s Supermarket in Newark, DE has employed Patricia “PJ” Parsons from the Supported Employment program for over 29 years. PJ, who enjoys working with the customers says, “I spend the money I earn wisely.”

“The Supported Employment program has been a wonderful experience,” Michael A. Zingo, Jr., Owner of Zingo’s, says. “PJ is like family, always has a smile on her face & is friendly to everyone. She puts a smile on your face.”

Staples in Dover has been employing Danny Yonker through Easterseals Supported Employment program for 17 years. Danny says he enjoys using the industrial vacuum to clean the sales floor the most. He enjoys using his paycheck on his hobbies, like bowling, going to the movies, purchasing paint and art supplies, and buying CDs.

Casapulla’s has been part of the Easterseals Supported Employment program for 21 years and has found the program to be incredibly rewarding for everyone. Jennifer Nobles has worked at Casapulla’s in Rehoboth Beach since her senior year of high school. It is not only that Jennifer is a hard worker that makes her an ideal employee; it is her cheerful, energetic, and enthusiastic personality that really wins customers over and keeps them coming back to Casapulla’s.

“Jennifer is very courteous and works well with everyone. She takes pride in her work, and it is obvious,” Mike La Penta, owner of Casapulla’s South, says. “I’d recommend Supported Employment to other employers to try. My experience has been terrific.”

Currently, Easterseals works with more than 60 businesses statewide supporting more than 80 individuals with disabilities in competitive employment. To learn more about how Easterseals can help you find the perfect employee for your business, call Jane Schuler at 302-324-4444.

Celebrating 75 years, Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore  is leading the way to an inclusive community through its innovative services, which include: children’s therapies, day programs for adults with physical or intellectual disabilities, supported employment, personal attendant services, senior services, recreational camping, respite services, and services for caregivers. To learn more about Easterseals, call 1- 800-677-3800 or visit  www.de.easterseals.com

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