Enid Jake Whinery Honored with Oklahoma Governor Disability Employment Awards of Excellence

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Sixteen individuals from across the state, five employers and two prominent media outlets were honored during the annual “Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence” recently held at the Phillips Pavilion on the grounds of the Governor’s Mansion in Oklahoma City. KOCO-TV Channel 5 Anchor Paul Folger emceed the event.

Originally created by former Governor and First Lady George and Donna Nigh 29 years ago, the awards recognize individuals with disabilities with a Governor’s commendation for “Outstanding Achievements in Employment.” One of this year’s winners included Enid’s Jake Whinery who received his award from Oklahoma Secretary of State Chris Benge and Oklahoma Department of Human Services Director Ed Lake.

Whinery was nominated for the honor by 4RKids Foundation Executive Director Tricia Mitchell. She nominated the sacker at Jumbo Foods West not only for securing his job at the grocery store right after graduating from high school in 2012, but also because Whinery has become much more confident and outgoing.

“Jake has learned how to secure rides to and from work, and he knows how to plan ahead for his work schedule,” Mitchell said. “Jake has learned how to successfully complete all of his work tasks and how to ask for time off from work. “The customers love Jake and look forward to having his help with their groceries.”

She said Whinery is also very involved in the community. He is a regular volunteer at events sponsored by the 4RKids Foundation, volunteers every week at Loaves and Fishes and for the community food pantry.

“Jake has always wanted a job and to be treated like other people,” Mitchell said. “Jake looks forward to going to work every day and prides himself on doing the best job possible.”

The Governor’s Disability Employment Awards of Excellence competition and program is co-sponsored by the Governor’s Office, the Oklahoma DHS Developmental Disabilities Services, the Oklahoma DRS and the Oklahoma Association of People Supporting EmploymentFirst. Award winners are annually selected by a panel of public servants and volunteers who either serve people with disabilities or represent organizations that provide direct care for them daily.

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Jake Whineryreceives an Oklahoma Governor’s Disability Employment Award of Excellence.