DURHAM SCHOOL SERVICES EARNS THE 2017 CHAMPION OF THE ARC EMPLOYER AWARD
People with developmental disabilities are hard-working members of the community, and Durham School Services—a leading provider in student transportation—has found that these residents of Spokane are vital to the success of running the day-to-day aspects of getting students to and from school safely.
The Arc of Spokane, an organization that advocates for and serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, has recognized Durham’s efforts by with the 2017 Champion of the Arc Employer Award at a ceremony on March 28.
“Hundreds of people with developmental disabilities go to work every day in offices, stores and restaurants throughout Spokane,” said Sima Thorpe, executive director for The Arc of Spokane. “They’re capable, hardworking employees who take pride in their abilities, and we are pleased that wonderful partners like Durham School Services recognize this, and their exceptional efforts to promote employment among people with developmental disabilities deserves to be recognized with our 2017 Champion of the Arc Employer Award.”
The acknowledgement is one that humbles the Durham team.
“We are truly honored to be recognized with this prestigious award,” said Stephen Kim, regional manager of Durham School Services. “We have one team member that is very proud to tell you that he has been working as a bus aide for 15 years, and he loves his job. We have several more employees with disabilities here at Durham as well. We are definitely the grateful beneficiary of such loyal and valued people.”
Durham’s employees live, work and serve the Spokane community, and the diversity of the team members is what makes it a great place to work.
“Our team members with disabilities provide a unique and high-value skill set that aligns with our core values of Safety, People, Customer, Community and Excellence,” said Craig Walker, general manager of Durham School Services. “As bus aides for our special needs students, they understand their unique needs and provide so much value to our team. They love their jobs, and we know that they are a true asset.”
The Arc advocates for and serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), including Down syndrome, autism, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, cerebral palsy and other diagnoses. The Arc has a network of over 650 chapters across the country promoting and protecting the human rights of people with I/DD and actively supporting their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes and without regard to diagnosis.