MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Cullman’s Isaac Jackson was named Small Business Employee of the Year during the Alabama Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities (GCEPD) awards. The awards, sponsored by the committee and the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS), took place at the Alabama Department of Archives and History on Monday, Oct. 27.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey, who was in attendance to present the awards, said she is proud to spotlight these trailblazing individuals and businesses, especially as National Disabilities Employment Awareness Month was observed throughout October. She encouraged more business leaders to recruit individuals with disabilities. “This month, and every month, I call upon all Alabama employers to recruit the hardest working folks in our state, those with disabilities,” she said. “Let’s put their talents and passion to work so they can become full partners in Alabama’s economic success.” ADRS Commissioner Jane Elizabeth Burdeshaw said she is proud to lead a department that consolidates so many services and resources for people with disabilities under one roof. She said it is an honor to shine the light on businesses, leaders and employees, and praised those who help people with disabilities reach their maximum potential. “As a member of the Alabama Workforce Board, I see first-hand the collaborative efforts across the state to create opportunities by bringing top-notch business and industry to Alabama, all while training every Alabamian to fill these critical jobs,” she said. “Our department and its community providers are proud to be a part of this amazing collaboration to build Alabama’s workforce.” Jackson, who performs a variety of duties at Cullman Florist, said he looks forward to coming in every day. “I love working at Cullman Florist and all the different jobs I have here,” he said. “I love everybody, and I love all the people.” Jackson is a graduate of Holly Pond High School and secured employment through Flourish of Cullman’s programs. Executive Director Melissa Dew, who works closely with ADRS to help people with disabilities prepare for the workforce, said she first met Isaac when he was participating in pre-employment transition service classes. She said he was very detail oriented and had a great personality. “That made him a great fit to work alongside a closely-knit group,” she said. “After meeting with the staff of Cullman Florist, we fell in love with them and saw their vision of hope for our future and the future of Cullman.” Dew said she often uses Isaac’s success to find jobs for others with different abilities. “Isaac is an individual we tell others about,” she said. “This is what can happen when you put in the work. It really makes me proud of him seeing him step into this role. He’s doing great.” The Alabama Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities awards recognize the contributions and successes of people with disabilities and those businesses that provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to achieve through competitive, integrated employment. Created by the Alabama Legislature in 1994, the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS) is the state agency that serves Alabamians with disabilities, helping to reach their maximum potential. Its continuum-of-care approach means that support and resources are available to Alabamians with disabilities at every stage of life. Find out more at rehab.alabama.gov.
