Okmulgee business receives commendation from Governor

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Thessley Massey, owner of Massey’s BBQ in Okmulgee, received a commendation from Governor Mary Fallin on November 10 during the Governor’s Disability Employment Awards at the Governor’s Mansion in Oklahoma City. The ceremony was co-sponsored by Governor Fallin along with the Developmental Disabilities Services Division of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, the Department of Rehabilitation Services and the Oklahoma Association of Persons in Supported Employment.

Massey’s BBQ employs one person with disabilities through Options, Inc and has participated in the Supported Employment Program for nearly seven years. Within the nomination form, Mr. Massey was described as a positive male role model who has made a real difference in his employee’s life. He takes the time to listen and provide his employee with the guidance and support needed to be personally and vocationally successful. Massey’s entire team is supportive of the employee and treats him with the respect he deserves. Massey has also written a letter of recommendation for Options, Inc. in an effort to encourage other businesses to recruit from this very valuable workforce.

“Employees and businesses like these place Oklahoma at the forefront as leaders for employing people with disabilities,” said Howard Hendrick, Director of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services.

“Oklahoma is committed to assisting people with developmental disabilities find competitive jobs and become working taxpayers,” said Hendrick. “Today, 60 percent of individuals with developmental disabilities served by the OKDHS Developmental Disabilities Services Division participate in supported employment services.”

Editors Note: To see Oklahoma's ranking as compared to other states in regard to the number of persons with developmental disabilities in competitive jobs (supported employment) go to www.statedata.info (link opens in new window).

Photo attached: Millie Westmoreland, Timothy Thomas and Thessley Massey receive a Governor’s Commendation from OKDHS Director Howard Hendrick. The awards were presented during the Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence at the Governor’s Mansion November 10.

###

Millie Westmoreland, Timothy Thomas and Thessley Massey receive a Governor’s Commendation from OKDHS Director Howard Hendrick. The awards were presented during the Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence at the Governor’s Mansion November 10.