ARC NEW YORK EMPLOYER RECOGNITION AWARD TO HAWTHORNE-BASED BUSINESS

From left: Robert Woythaler, director of production, ABB OPTICAL GROUP/DIGITAL EYE LAB Network; Joseph Frank, employee and participant in The Arc Westchester Employee Program; and Maria Varga, career supports coordinator, The Arc Westchester

In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (October), The Arc Westchester honored one of its longtime employer partners Abb Optical Group/Digital Eye Lab Network with its New York Employer Recognition Award.

In 2016, Abb Optical Group/Digital Eye Lab Network joined The Arc Westchester”™s group of more than 250 business partners. It currently employees nine individuals supported by The Arc at its digital lab in Hawthorne. Each role is centered around technology, innovation and attention to detail.

The Arc New York Employer Recognition Award provides chapters with an opportunity to recognize an individual, corporation or business in New York state that has demonstrated outstanding support in providing services and job opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

“Our partnership with The Arc Westchester has proven to make good business sense for the company in so many ways,” said Robert Woythaler, director of production, Abb Optical Group/Digital Eye Lab Network. “Our Arc employees are successful in their roles and they take their jobs seriously, but with a smile. They”™re focused, compassionate and their work ethic has a positive impact on our other 200 employees and overall workplace. I urge other businesses to recognize the benefits of an inclusive workforce. Not only for their bottom line, but for the impact it has on our community-at-large.”

The Arc Westchester, founded in 1949, is the largest agency in Westchester County supporting children, teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including individuals on the autism spectrum, and their families. The organization”™s 850 employees provide more than 2,000 individuals throughout the county with a broad range of innovative and effective programs and services designed to foster independence, productivity and participation in community life.

The mission of The Arc Westchester is to empower children, teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including individuals on the autism spectrum, to achieve their potential by strengthening families and encouraging personal choices, abilities and interests.

The Arc Westchester is a chapter of The Arc USA and The Arc New York.