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Tears and laughter filled the Rochester Event Center as speakers shared success stories of family and friends with disabilities at the PossAbilities 2012 Employment Awards Banquet. Board of Directors President, Roxanne Hellickson, brought tears to many in the audience with heart touching stories of her brother, Kermit. “He acted as a big brother and sometimes a father,” Hellickson said.

Hellickson said her parents were told that Kermit would only live to be 18, but he defied the experts and recently turned 60 years old. Kermit is one of many disabled adults and children that have benefited from the programs offered by PossAbilities. PossAbilities is a non-profit organization that serves children and adults with disabilities. Helping people find and keep jobs, getting people involved in community activities and to contribute through volunteerism.

Betsy Singer, news anchor at ABC 6, brought the crowd to life with her contagious enthusiasm, energy and smile. She identified a number of people in the audience that benefited from finding jobs with companies working with PossAbilities. Her request to have individuals stand and be honored was met with enthusiasm and a big smile. “They are all my friends,” said Singer. She has been working with PossAbilities since she was a teenager.

Gail Bishop shared her daughter’s story of success and how much her job means to her. “Thank you PossAbilities for contributing to her success,” Bishop said.

The reason for the event is the presentation of three awards. The Summit Award, the Guide Award and the Explorer Award are presented to honor employers, co-workers and the clients of Possibilities. The John Ellingson Summit Award was presented to Culver’s South, the Joseph Fitzpatrick Guide Award was received by Thom Hartman and Tim Shelly employees of The Homestead of Rochester and Mike who works for Sodexo at the Dan Abraham Living Center food center was presented the Explorer Award.

The Explorer Award was the one award that was kept secret until presentation time. It was acknowledged by the audience with a standing ovation and energetic reception from Mike.

“Culver’s of Rochester is extremely proud to have been nominated for the Possibilities’ John Ellingson Summit Award by Josh of our team,” said Steve Wernimont, co-owner of the Rochester Culver Restaurants.  “Yes, we serve food but really we are in the people business and the people behind the counter are just as important as the people in front of the counter.  For as long as I can remember we have had a couple team members with special needs.  Josh has worked with us for 2 1/2 years and is loved by the entire team.  We are happy Josh is able to gain something by being on our team.  However, I think the rest of our team gains more by his presence and participation.  I know I do”

Three hundred people attended the banquet held at the Rochester International Event Center in honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. First names are used in the story when referring to clients to respect the policy of PossAbilties to not publish last names.