October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)
To celebrate NDEAM, we would like to feature a very special business partner, as well as a hard-working employee of that business, Manny.
The League Education and Treatment Center (LETC) would like to recognize Craft & Vallata Restaurant as our featured business partner!
Emmanuel Irick at Craft & Vallata restaurant
Right from the start, the Craft & Vallata teams have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to inclusive hiring practices. They have welcomed Manny as well as other recruits from LETC with open arms and have treated them as part of their family. We could not be happier with this partnership and look forward to our continued work ahead. Not to mention, the food and hospitality at these restaurants are second to none!
Manny started attending LETC’s Prevocational program in Feb of 2008. Throughout his years, Manny has demonstrated an eagerness to learn and achieve. His attendance has always been perfect and he’s worked hard to meet his goal of joining the workforce.
According to Linton Thompson, DSP Voc Specialist, “over the years, I've seen Emmanuel progress from timid to confident in expressing his wants and needs. He works hard every day to gain relevant knowledge and learn skills that will help him succeed at work and in life.”
In April 2022, Manny’s goal became a reality when he was hired at Craft & Vallata Restaurant in the position of Polisher.
According to John Gargano, General Manager of Craft & Vallata, he is satisfied with what Manny brings to the job. “Manny has brought humility to an environment that is fast-paced, often impersonal, and sometimes hectic. He always has a great attitude and chooses to be positive.”
John Gargano, General Manager, Cesar Caicedo, and Emmanuel Irick
When asked how he would describe Manny in 3 words, John said “Reliable, Appreciative, Humble.” Natalie Grindstaff, Director of Restaurants, adds that “he also has a great sense of humor.” When asked what he enjoys most about his job, Manny says it’s “working with my team.” Add team-player to the list of positive attributes that have made Manny so successful!
John also believes that Manny will continue to progress, saying that “we plan to move Manny into a position that works closely with our Culinary Team...”
We congratulate Manny as well as the Craft & Vallata teams for their outstanding work.
