Vancouver, WA  ̶  Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill of Vancouver and Furuno USA, Inc. of Camas were honored recently as the small and large businesses, respectively, of the year for their commitment to employ people with developmental disabilities.

The businesses were recognized at the 16th annual awards ceremony sponsored by the Clark County Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board, Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce, New Seasons Market and Umpqua Bank. The event celebrates businesses that employ persons with developmental or intellectual disabilities, supported employees, employment agencies and residents who have demonstrated outstanding service to persons with developmental disabilities.

Kerri Martelli, a clerical support assistant with the state’s Department of Social and Health Services Children’s Administration, was named 2016 Employee of the Year at the Oct. 19 event at the Heathman Lodge. Her career with the state spans 16 years.

Donna Gunnels of Trillium Employment Services was the 2016 recipient of the David Hanawalt Service Award. An advocate for inclusion, Gunnels finds the right match between supported employees and businesses wanting to hire them.

Geneva Wood of Employers Overload received the 2016 Dennis Campbell Outstanding Service Award. Her work helping people contribute to their communities reaches far into businesses and organizations.

To see a video of the event, please go to www.cvtv.org/vid_link/18444.

CONTACT
Mary Strehlow
Developmental Disabilities Program Manager
(360) 397-2075 ext. 7825
mary.strehlow@clark.wa.gov