Sunflower Communities in Elmore receives Statewide Honors for Disability Employment

ELMORE — Nominated by STEP Inc. in Fairmont, Sunflower Communities Elmore was named an Outstanding Disability Employer by the Minnesota Organization for Habilitation and Rehabilitation, MOHR, during National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October. Employment consultant Donna Kotewa and a site manager presented the Outstanding Disability Employer Award on Oct. 22 at the Sunflower Communities facility, 202 North Street East in Elmore.

“People with disabilities are engaged and thriving in jobs across our state and we are very thankful for the employers who extend these opportunities,” said Julie Johnson, president of MOHR. “We would encourage more employers to get on board and discover the talent pool they are missing.” MOHR represents about 100 disability service providers across the state.

STEP supports three individuals at Sunflower Communities who live in neighboring communities, explains Employment Manager Dominique Berg. They work in maintenance, dietary and housekeeping roles. Sunflower Communities Regional Executive Chef Troy Thompson said employees supported by STEP have been tremendously versatile in performing different job duties. All of this leads to a smooth-running operation, thanks to their willingness to perform across multiple areas and job roles, he explained.

Thompson said support from STEP has been “fantastic,” with on-site training, supervision and timely communication. “There are regular site surveys to ensure the program is working for us, as well as their clients,” said Thompson. “Donna (Kotewa) and her team have been absolutely wonderful to partner with.”

“With help wanted signs everywhere, more Minnesota employers are discovering that people with disabilities can meet their needs and become part of their workforce,” said Johnson. “Every year, we see more people with disabilities entering the workforce as their talents and skills are recognized, valued and put to good use for our economy. STEP supported employees at Sunflower Communities make a better income for themselves, which allows them to enjoy more things, the employment manager said. “They have thoughts of pride and ownership on the job that they were entrusted to do,” said Berg. Employees tell others about their work and gain a sense of belonging, as well.

MOHR’s mission is to “Advocate and support its nonprofit members in providing meaningful services to persons with disabilities and communities served.” Members are committed to respect for each individual, a person-centered approach and expanding work opportunities.