Bernards Recognizes Disability Employment Month, Thanks Local Employers

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — The Bernards Township Committee recognized October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month and thanked local businesses that employ disabled adults.

At the Oct. 27 meeting, the Committee approved a resolution, which says the annual observance is meant to raise awareness of disability employment and celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities.

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The resolution also notes the observance began in 1945 as a weeklong recognition of people with physical disabilities, was broadened in 1962 to include people with all types of disabilities, and was expanded by Congress in 1988 from a week to a month.

The resolution states that Ridge High School, through its Work-Based Learning program, provides training in partnership with local businesses so students can learn job skills that support future employment.

It also says workplaces that welcome people with disabilities help build an inclusive community, expand economic opportunity and strengthen the workforce.

The township recognized these local employers in the resolution: William Annin Middle School, Aramark, Barrister Coffee, Bernards Township Library, Create Studios, Jersey Girl Chocolate, Maschio's Food Services, Old Mill Inn, Priscilla's Pantry, Ridge Hotel, Ridge Oak Senior Housing, Ridge High School, Somerset Hills YMCA, Stop & Shop, Soup Shoppe and Washington House.

"I feel it's a win-win-win for any business environment that can and does employ those with a disability. The employee wins, the business wins, and the community wins," Committeeman Brett Hodges said.

Committeeman Andrew McNally thanked businesses and community members involved in the programs.

He said the committee's recognition was intended, in "our small way," to inspire others to include people with disabilities in their workplaces.

Committee member Jennifer Asay noted that 86 percent of adults with autism are not employed and thanked the employers who give those with disabilities a job.

"I, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for all that you do. It's important to me as a consumer, and I certainly share with my friends to help, and I will continue to share that voice," Asay said.

Deputy Mayor John Tompkins described his experience working the last eight years with a transition program in Randolph with kids with special needs and encouraged other business owners to take part when possible.

"It was very eye-opening because every kid has a unique set of skills and some take to it and they get into a rhythm and it was amazing. Those days were so joyful for me because these kids were just fantastic," Tompkins said.

The resolution was unanimously approved by Committee members.

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