President and CEO Bob Comben presents Patty with her award. 

Olive Banister Vocational Training Award
Recipient:  Patricia Bena
Program:  Basic Life Skills

The Olive Banister Vocational Award recognizes a VGS staff member who has demonstrated extraordinary service and commitment to preparing our consumers for fulfilling jobs.

Patty came to VGS 2 years ago with a desire to learn. Determined to provide the highest quality services possible, she used her own time to research and study the latest and most effective methods of vocational rehabilitation.  Her contributions (including an assertive attitude and a willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty) have helped make Basic Life Skills an incredible program Patty has developed numerous plans to increase community excursions for Basic Life Skills consumers. Fully of patience and compassion, Patty is truly dedicated to the individuals she works with and this shows in the relationship she has with her consumers. 

Vocational Guidance Services is extremely thankful to Patty for her hard work and dedication.

Text and Photograph Curtsey of Tammy Peterson, Public Relations Coordinator

The Theodore Fabyan Placement Award annually recognizes a staff member who exemplifies the highest quality of placement services for people with special needs.  Successful placement efforts are a vitally important continuing step to the clients we serve.

No one knows what successful placements mean to our consumers better than Louisa. She came to VGS after running her own business providing placement and career outreach. Her outgoing personality and commitment to VGS and our mission have proved indispensable to those she works with.  Louisa loves talking to people and is excellent in making placement sales calls on behalf of her consumers.  She inspires a high level of confidence in area employers, referring counselors and consumers as they know she can be counted on to get things done.  In 2006, Louisa placed 28 individuals with significant disabilities in jobs and contributed to the success of the Elyria Community Based Work Adjustment program.

Vocational Guidance Services is extremely thankful to Louisa for her continued dedication and commitment.

Text and Photograph Curtsey of Tammy Peterson, Public Relations Coordinator

Dr. Louis D. Kacalieff Training Services Award
Recipient:  Bill Munshower
Program:  Food Service

Bill Munshower is known to many as a spirited instructor who provides his students with an enjoyable and fun approach to learning while maintaining an environment realistic to the food service industry.  Under Bill's management, the Food Services Department has experienced tremendous growth. Bill negotiated and ultimately was awarded a contract with The Cleveland Metroparks and as a result VGS currently operates three golf course snack bars and is the proprietary caterer for the entire Metropark System (with the exception of the zoo).  Bill has also cultivated a relationship with the Children’s Hunger Alliance to provide meals to local schools to promote healthy nutrition in School Food Service.

Vocational Guidance Services congratulates Bill on a great year. 

Text and Photograph Curtsey of Tammy Peterson, Public Relations Coordinator

Dorothy Chapman McBride Award
Name:  Charles Okafor
Position:  Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Charles came to VGS from YO! Cleveland and spent 12 years working for the Cleveland Municipal School District before becoming a Career Coach for YO! In September of 2005, Charles transitioned into his current position as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the Work Adjustment Program.  Although he currently manages one of the largest caseloads at VGS, Charles never allows these challenges to dampen his spirit or enthusiasm for his job.  He continues to be a “first-rate” co-worker and someone we all depend on. 

Robert Bey Spirit Award
Name:  Drew McAuliffe
Position:  Resource Specialist
Drew was recognized due to his outstanding commitment to his work, going above and beyond for consumers to eliminate barriers to employment.  No one can deny his humorous nature or his love for the community.  One co-worker stated, “Drew will put his jacket over a puddle so you won’t have to walk through it.  He gives in the most unselfish way, and comes to work not seeking praise or accolades.