Providence Center, a non-profit organization that serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, along with the Maryland Department of Disabilities, held a ceremony on September 29, 2017 to honor Safeway for the opportunities it provides to people with disabilities in their community.
As part of the Maryland Department of Disabilities Direct Support Professional Recognition Week Celebration, Providence Center nominated Safeway as an Outstanding Employer. Providence Center recognized Safeway for its longstanding partnership with Providence Center to provide competitive jobs for people. Safeway employs people supported by Providence Center at stores in Annapolis, Arnold, Edgewater, Gambrills, Pasadena and Severna Park and has worked with Providence Center for more than 30 years.
To celebrate the Safeway organization, representatives from Providence Center and Maryland Department of Disabilities Deputy Assistant Secretary John Brennan, gathered with Safeway employees at the Severna Park Safeway location for remarks, a presentation of a Governor’s Citation from Deputy Assistant Secretary Brennan and refreshments.
Karen Adams-Gilchrist, Providence Center’s President and CEO, said, “We believe that people who want to work can and should have a competitive job in their local community. Employer partners like Safeway share this belief. They understand the importance of investing in people and gaining valuable employees.”
Tom Lofland, Vice President of Merchandising and Marketing said, “Safeway is truly grateful to accept the Governor’s Citation. Like Providence Center, Safeway has a long history of creating job opportunities for people with physical and developmental disabilities. We are very proud to employ individuals who consistently prove themselves to be among our most productive and valued staff. We are very proud to have them serve on our team.”
The event was also a chance to recognize Providence Center’s direct support staff who work closely with people to ensure success on the job and throughout their career. “Our direct support staff are the foundation of our work,” said Karen Adams-Gilchrist, Providence Center’s President and CEO.
Providence Center, a non-profit organization based in Anne Arundel County, supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to learn, grow and advocate for the lives they want within their communities. We believe that community is meant for every person and that with the right placement and support, people can work in meaningful jobs, earn competitive wages and contribute the way they want to the greater community. Safeway is one of 60 businesses who partner with Providence Center to employ people.
Providence Center meets the growing needs of nearly 450 men and women through a comprehensive mix of programs and services focusing on competitive employment, community engagement and meaningful days within their community.
