MANSFIELD, PA—Partners In Progress hosted an educational luncheon, planned and facilitated by Mansfield University Public Relations students, on April 7. The luncheon shared information about the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities. Several local businesses were in attendance.
During the event, there were guest speakers, food catered by Cast & Crew, and profiles made for some of the individuals with disabilities. The profiles showcased the skills and strengths that the individuals have to offer future employers.
Attendees heard from speakers about the process and benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities and also were able to learn more about the individuals that were seeking employment.
Guest speakers included employees of Partners in Progress plus Judy McMullen, Human Resources coordinator for Mansfield’s Walmart, and Charles Protasio, Business Service representative of the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.
“We’ve had a relationship with Partners for 10 years,” McMullen said. “We currently have five clients through Partners.”
Protasio, who has dedicated the past 16and a half years of his life to helping individuals who are out of work find a job, talked about the challenges that individuals with disabilities face when it comes to hiring.
“There isn’t any reason someone should lose their job because of a disability,” he said.
“This is one of the few opportunities that local businesses have to learn about the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities through Partners In Progress, PIP Executive Director Irene Morgan said. “ It is truly a win-win situation.”
Several area local businesses attended the event, including representatives from Weis Markets, Strohecker Vision Care, Mansfield Chamber of Commerce and Mansfield University.
Anyone interested in learning more about Partners In Progress should call (570)662-7026 or by e-mail at irenem@partnerspip.com
The MU students who participated in the project are Roxanne Heaney-Rumsey, Sarah Haley, Casey Yourish, Mike Jerzak, Kayla Russell, Kassandra Mantz, Irene Morgan, Owen Lukens, Kelsey Chapman and Alexis Rathburn. Emilee Andrews photographed the event.
To learn more about studying Public Relations or other Communication options at MU, go to communication.mansfield.edu