Eufaula resident receives Governor's Commendation

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Eufaula resident Earl Nielson 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.

Before working as a sacker and carry out person at Nichol’s Dollar Saver in Checotah, Earl Nielson had no prior work experience. With the assistance of a job coach through Options, Inc., Nielson completes his daily tasks without assistance and only requires follow along services. His co-workers say they enjoy working with him and customers seem to really enjoy interacting with this polite young man. He smiles with pride as others praise him often for the good job he is doing and he is very thankful to work in such a positive work environment.

Nielson’s job at Nichol’s Dollar Saver has given him the opportunity to further develop his social skills as he is able to interact with many different people throughout each work shift. At one time, he had to take extended leave from work. When he was able to return to work, Nichols Grocery welcomed him back with open arms due to the quality of his work. Nielson now lives in his own home since his aunt with whom he lived was placed in a nursing facility. He has caring neighbors who offer friendly assistance in maintaining his responsibilities as a homeowner.

“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.”

The Governor’s Disability Employment Awards are co sponsored by Governor Mary Fallin along with OKDHS/DDSD, the Department of Rehabilitation Services, and the Oklahoma Association of Persons in Supported Employment.

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:
Earl Nielson (left) receives a Governor’s Commendation from OKDHS Director Howard Hendrick for his outstanding work at Nichol’s Dollar Saver. The award was presented during the Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence at the Governor’s Mansion on November 10.

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Earl Nielson (left) receives a Governor’s Commendation from OKDHS Director Howard Hendrick for his outstanding work at Nichol’s Dollar Saver. The award was presented during the Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence at the Governor’s Mansion November 10.