Photo submission Fred Andrews of Italo’s Pizza, Lisbon, has been honored by the Colombian Council for Developmental Disabilities and its Reach 4 More program for his continued willingness to employ people with disabilities. Paul Anthony (left) of Reach 4 More presents the award to Andrews. Also pictured are Italo employee David Brabant and CCBDD director Bill Devon.
LISBON — Fred Andrews, owner of Italo’s Pizza in Lisbon, has more than 40 years of experience in the restaurant business, and he knows it when he sees a good employee. A highly regarded member of Andrews’ Italo staff is David Brabant.
As a client of the Columbia County Board of Developmental Disabilities (CCBDD), Brabant’s primary responsibility at Italo’s is dishwashing, but he is more than willing to help wherever he is needed.
“David was a hard worker,” Andrews pointed out. “He is the perfect example of a disabled person who can work. David loves to work. Like many disabled people, David wants to be a contributor to a cohesive working group.”
Italo’s is recognized by Reach 4 More for employing people with disabilities. Reach 4 More is an employment program of the Columbia County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
“Business owners like Fred are a pleasure to work with. They truly care about their employees,” Says Paul Anthony, business engagement specialist at Reach 4 More. “He was aware of David’s contribution to the business.”
Brabant, 41, has been involved with Reach 4 More since the program started five years ago.
“We offer a wide range of potential employees for business owners to choose from,” Anthony said. “Our goal is to provide our customers and business owners with a successful partnership. We want employees and employers to have a positive experience.”
“We definitely encourage reliable people like David,” Andrews said. “We’re delighted to have an employee who shows up, wants to work, and has a positive attitude.”
Andrews appreciates David’s positive attitude and willingness to work.
“People like David want to work and they are good at the tasks assigned to them. They help develop teamwork within the workforce,” Note to Italo’s owner. “Everyone is different. We all have different strengths and weaknesses.”
Owning and running a business in these economic times can be very difficult, not only for the owner but for the employees as well.
“David was the highlight of the day. No matter what kind of life you have, he has the ability to make you laugh.” Andrews said. “For a business to be successful, it’s important for employees to work as a team. David is a very important member of our team at Italo’s.”
“Paul has done a great job connecting with local business owners and identifying their needs,” Devon said of Anthony’s efforts for the Reach 4 More initiative. “We have potential employees who can be successful in a variety of businesses. Paul is determined to help our clients succeed. We value our relationship with Italo. Jeff is a passionate owner of a vibrant business in our community.”
Businesses or individuals needing more information about Reach 4 More can contact Anthony by email at p.anthony@ccbdd.net. Its website is www.reach4more.org.
– submitted materials