Employment Recognition Ceremony

Lynn Ward accepting the Kathy Sykes Employment Advocacy Award with her employees Kristen Fellows, Matt Kutchner, and Bethany Rice.

On the evening of Thursday, May 15th, SPIN celebrated its 16th Annual Employment Recognition Ceremony and Banquet. Almost 200 people filled the Cottage Green to celebrate the achievements of those individuals who have been employed in the community this past year.  Seventeen Employment Specialists welcomed each and every person on their caseload to the podium to receive their certificate with a thoughtful and personalized speech. There was even more excitement in the air when Joe Farmer received his plaque for 25 years of employment with the Philadelphia School District. Also celebrating 15 year of employment milestones were Darnell Rappo, Raymond Jackson, Gayle Easley and Kristen Minnich. SPIN also recognized our great community partners with the Outstanding Employer Awards. Two Philadelphia and one Lehigh valley employer were presented with plaques for their commitment and support to employ people with disabilities. This year’s recipients of the Outstanding Employer Award were Patrick Kelly of Stein Your Florist, Chris McKendry of Restaurant Depot, and Vincent Hartzell of Hartzell Pharmacy. Kathy Sykes was present to assist in the presentation of the Kathy Sykes Employment Advocacy Award given to Lynn Ward of University Services. This award celebrates a member of the community with enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to employment opportunities for everyone! Lynn currently employees three individuals supported by SPIN Employment Services and is always open to finding new ways to partner with SPIN. A great time was had by all! As the night came to a close, we were already looking forward to next year’s banquet and all of the wonderful accomplishments we will celebrate!

Vincent being presented with the Outstanding Employer Award.